by Melissa Roske
Inspiration is weird. It comes at the strangest times, in the strangest places. The inspiration for my middle-grade novel, KAT GREENE COMES CLEAN, came stuffed inside a fortune cookie. Here’s what it said:
A winsome smile is your sure protection.
I hadn’t a clue what this meant—or how it applied to me—but the fortune had a nice ring to it, so I decided to keep it. Several years later, I was going through my desk drawer when I found the fortune. For reasons I can’t begin to understand or explain, an image of a sassy 11-year-old New Yorker leapfrogged into my brain and I knew I had to write about her.
I wrote and wrote (and wrote), until I had a clearer picture of who this character was, and what mattered to her. I slowly added parents, a best friend, a quirky school in Greenwich Village, a stepmom, a little brother, a crush. Before I knew it, I had created Kat Greene’s world—and a first draft of the novel. I found an agent (not easy), landed a book deal (harder still), and, on August 22, 2017, was finally able to call myself a published author. It was a dream come true!
Unfortunately, the idea for my second middle-grade novel didn’t come as easily. Images of sassy protagonists didn’t leapfrog into my brain, and all the fortune cookies in the world couldn’t help me this time. Clearly, I’d used up all my good ideas in the first book. I was a one-hit wonder, I decided. The kidlit equivalent of Milli Vanilli.
Immobilized by fear and self-loathing, I went into a very dark place. Then the pandemic hit, and the place grew even darker. The more despondent I felt, the more immobilized I became. Was this writer’s block, I wondered—or something more sinister?
As most writers eventually do, I turned to Anne Lamott’s iconic craft book, BIRD BY BIRD, for guidance. I had resisted this book for years because—let’s be honest here—it seemed way too touchy-feely for my cynical New York taste. Too New Age-y. Too Californian. But I was wrong. Sure, Lamott uses words like “abundance” and “self-compassion,” but her book turned out to be hysterically funny and, more important, offered me more than humor. It gave me hope. Hope that I wasn’t a one-hit wonder; that I had the ability to write but had lost my confidence, somewhere between “fear” and “self-loathing.” I’d also forgotten how joyful writing can be, especially when you learn to tune out the judgy-wudgy voice inside your head that says, “You suck!” and “You have no business calling yourself a writer.”
It didn’t happen overnight, but after a while “you suck” gave way to “I can”. I revised two novels and wrote a short story—“Grandma Merle’s Last Wish,” which will appear in COMING OF AGE: 13 B’NAI MITZVAH STORIES, a Jewish MG anthology released on April 18 from Albert Whitman & Co.
I also realized that fear and self-loathing can be kicked to the curb, but only you’re ready and willing to do the work. And if you’re not…?
Crack open a fortune cookie. You never know what’s inside.
Melissa Roske is the author of KAT GREENE COMES CLEAN (Charlesbridge, 2017) and the short story “Grandma Merle’s Last Wish,” which will appear in the forthcoming Jewish middle-grade anthology, COMING OF AGE: 13 B’Nai Mitzvah Stories (Albert Whitman & Company, 4/19/22). A native New Yorker, Melissa is a contributor to the popular MG blog From the Mixed-Up Files of Middle Grade Authors, including this post she wrote about #Storystorm2021. Learn more about Melissa on her website and follow her on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
Melissa is giving away three prizes to three separate random winners—a signed copy of KAT GREENE COMES CLEAN, a copy of COMING OF AGE: 13 B’NAI MITZVAH STORIES (when it becomes available on 4/18/22), and a middle-grade query critique!
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.
614 comments
Comments feed for this article
January 13, 2022 at 12:50 pm
Laura
“A short stranger will enter your life.” It predicted my son that I was so eager to welcome. That was 30+years ago. I BELIEVE!!!
January 17, 2022 at 1:51 pm
melissaroske
That’s adorable! Thank you for sharing, Laura. 🙂
January 13, 2022 at 12:51 pm
judyrubin13
Thank you, Melissa, for sharing your writing insights. Fortune cookies are a great inspiration, especially when you to eat them, too.
January 31, 2022 at 7:16 pm
Melissa Roske
I agree, Judy. Fortune cookies (for the most part) are yummy! Happy writing!
January 13, 2022 at 12:52 pm
Sarah Stuart
Great post, thank you!
January 13, 2022 at 4:35 pm
Melanie Rowsell-Docherty
The book I’m currently writing is also inspired by a fortune cookie!
January 13, 2022 at 5:17 pm
Stephanie S
Great post! I know that I have those doubts about my writing quite often. It is nice to know that I am not alone.
January 13, 2022 at 12:53 pm
Shirley Ng-Benitez
Congratulations and thank you for this helpful post!
January 13, 2022 at 12:53 pm
danielledufayet
Inspiring words can turn your whole life around! Thanks for sharing and congrats!
January 13, 2022 at 12:54 pm
Jeanette
Thank you for the tip!
January 13, 2022 at 12:54 pm
wordwritermo
When my CPs read this post, hopefully they will get as much of a chuckle out of it as I just did (specifically around the fortune cookie bit). I was vacillating between On Writing and Bird by Bird to request for a Christmas gift and settled on On Writing. Now I’ll have to buy Bird by Bird myself. 🙂 Thanks for the inspiration!
–Melisa Wrex (@mowrex on Twitter)
January 13, 2022 at 1:08 pm
N. Alison Colle
Yes! Inspiration is a mysterious thing.
Thank you for sharing.
January 13, 2022 at 12:55 pm
Elyse trevers
This post really was perfect timing for me. I hear those same voices in my head, so I just reserved Bird by Bird and will begin to pay more attention to my fortune cookies!
Thank you for sharing
January 13, 2022 at 12:55 pm
dragonphoenixgames
Lovely story. Thank you for sharing with us.
January 13, 2022 at 12:55 pm
Marsha Weiner
wishing more good fortune for you! tx for sharing how you initially shoved aside Bird by Bird…. (with head dropped). i can relate
January 13, 2022 at 12:56 pm
Midge Smith
Such a hopeful, encouraging post! Thank you, Melissa!
January 13, 2022 at 12:56 pm
kathalsey
Yay, Anne Lamott to the rescue. It is a funny book and a staple. Kicking that one-hit wonder “crap” to the side is hard. I’m not published yet, but knowing it affects published writers let’s me know we’re all in this together! TY and congrats on the COMING OF AGE anthology! You rock.
January 13, 2022 at 12:56 pm
Jany Campana
Thanks Melissa for the “I can” inspiration!
January 13, 2022 at 12:56 pm
Alison McGauley
Thanks so much for this! I will keep an eye out for inspiration in unlikely places!
January 13, 2022 at 12:57 pm
Jenny Boyd
I love the idea of finding inspiration on a fortune cookie. Also, I’m not familiar with Bird by Bird but will definitely check it out.
January 13, 2022 at 12:57 pm
Gretchen McLellan
So glad you bird by birded your way back to writing! Congratulations on your first novel (more will surely come) and your story and your honesty!
January 13, 2022 at 12:57 pm
leslieevatayloe
It’s amazing how those negative words in the back of your head keep you from some of the smallest tasks. Good for you for overcoming them. Best wishes to you in 2022.
January 13, 2022 at 12:57 pm
Elyse Trevers
This post was perfect timing for me, so I just reserved Bird by Bird. Thank you for sharing
January 13, 2022 at 12:57 pm
marsha weiner
And wishing more good fortune for you.
Thank you for sharing your initial reaction for Bird by Bird
(with head dropped)… I can relate..
January 13, 2022 at 12:58 pm
talararuth
As a fellow native New Yorker, this post rang especially true. Congrats on your wins and thanks for the inspiration!
January 13, 2022 at 12:58 pm
Ellen Leventhal
I often want the whole flock at once (impatience is in my DNA), but…Bird. By. Bird. And fortune cookies! Thanks for sharing your journey!
January 13, 2022 at 12:58 pm
Janice Woods
So encouraging! Thanks for sharing!
January 13, 2022 at 12:59 pm
Penelope McNally
Thanks for sharing your journey; so good to know published authors hear those pesky voices in their heads too! Maybe I’ll order Chinese tonight… congratulations on your upcoming book!
January 13, 2022 at 12:59 pm
ironicdelights
think i figured out why comment is going out 2X sorry about that!!
On Thu, Jan 13, 2022 at 11:48 AM Writing for Kids (While Raising Them) wrote:
> Tara Lazar posted: “by Melissa Roske Inspiration is weird. It comes at the > strangest times, in the strangest places. The inspiration for my > middle-grade novel, KAT GREENE COMES CLEAN, came stuffed inside a fortune > cookie. Here’s what it said: A winsome smile is your su” >
January 13, 2022 at 12:59 pm
Laura Purdie Salas
Lovely post–getting rid of the judge is so important!
January 13, 2022 at 12:59 pm
thecrowsmap
Congratulations on your story and books (published and unpublished) and not quitting! We’re going to order out for dinner tonight:) Thanks for a great post. Gail Hartman
January 13, 2022 at 1:00 pm
irmelsa
I have a few stories and books that started with a single line. It was a fun adventure finding the story inside.
January 13, 2022 at 1:00 pm
stiefelchana
I love this post! I haven’t listened to Milli Vanilli in years (who has?), but now I’m playing Blame it on the Rain because I have a strong feeling my next story idea is in that song. LOL! Congrats on ALL of your success. Can’t wait for Bnai Mitzvah stories. I’d love to know how that anthology came together. Mazal tov!
January 13, 2022 at 1:01 pm
Jojo Kasala
What an authentic and beautiful message…thank you.
January 13, 2022 at 1:01 pm
allthingscreativeequal
I think it might be time for Anne Lamott AND some fortune cookies! Thanks so much.
January 13, 2022 at 1:03 pm
lizricewrites
Thank you for sharing! I’m going to start reading Bird By Bird today!
January 13, 2022 at 1:03 pm
Angie
Oh, good one! Fortune cookies and reading “writing books.” I’ve read LaMotte, but many years ago. Thanks for the suggestions! Congrats!
January 13, 2022 at 1:04 pm
Cheryl Johnson
It’s always so good to hear the journey of others. To know that we’re not alone in our feelings. Thanks for sharing!
January 13, 2022 at 1:04 pm
Katie Frawley
I LOVE Bird By Bird sooooo much. And I’m really looking forward to that short story collection! Congrats on all your writing success!
January 13, 2022 at 1:05 pm
rebeccacolby
I LOVE your personal story and this post! And because I have a dozen fortune cookies in the house at the moment, I’m going to go crack one open now… Thank you! 🙂
January 13, 2022 at 1:06 pm
Jay
Great resource suggestion, thanks. Congratulations to you.
January 13, 2022 at 1:07 pm
Susan Latta
Thanks for sharing this encouraging post!
January 13, 2022 at 1:07 pm
paulajbecker
Thank you for sharing your hard journey! It’s a reminder that publishing is a long row to hoe.
January 13, 2022 at 1:07 pm
Gabriella Aldeman
I’ve had Bird by Bird on my to-read list for a while. I’ll have to read it now. For others looking for more writing books, On Writing by Stephen King is phenomenal and so is Writing Picture Books by Ann Whitford Paul.
January 13, 2022 at 1:08 pm
Laura K Bower
I love everything about this post – fortune cookies, Bird by Bird, and removing judgement. Thank you Melissa! I’m going to check out Kat Greene for my middle schooler! And congrats on your new book!
January 13, 2022 at 1:08 pm
Susan Wollison
A fortune cookie- I love it!
January 13, 2022 at 1:08 pm
Carol Gwin Nelson
Thanks for the encouragement! We just need to keep sitting down at the desk- which isn’t always as easy as it sounds.
January 13, 2022 at 1:08 pm
kskeesling
You’ve inspired me to get a copy of bird by bird! Thanks for being so honest and sharing your story.
January 13, 2022 at 1:10 pm
Poppy Wrote P
Inspiration is magical.
January 13, 2022 at 1:10 pm
kiwijenny
Thanks Melissa. Picture book writers should write fortune cookies. Kick your judgy-wudgy to the curb. And you don’t suck. Thanks for getting me out of the mire.
January 13, 2022 at 1:10 pm
ryanrobertsauthor
Thank you for this!
January 13, 2022 at 1:10 pm
marshaelyn
Melissa, sassy, uppity-attitude MC’s are the most fun to write and read about. Your Brainstorm Method is clever and something I’ll definitely try. Vietnamese food and I have a love affair going. And who can resist reading fortunes? Besides, the cookies themselves are tasty. Thank you for sharing such a unique idea. Sending you energy and inspiration for your continued success…
January 13, 2022 at 1:10 pm
kimpfenn
Who doesn’t love Bird by Bird – we should all reach for it for inspiration and I love the fortune cookie idea!
January 13, 2022 at 1:11 pm
Lisa Billa
Thanks for the reminder to be open to any inspiration you can find! I look forward to reading your new book.
January 13, 2022 at 1:11 pm
Steena Hernandez
Melissa, I love that the idea for your story came from a fortune cookie! 🙂 I’m inspired by your perseverance, and thank you for sharing your story!
January 13, 2022 at 1:11 pm
Hanna Geshelin
A fortune cookie? I think there is a story just in thst fact!
January 13, 2022 at 1:11 pm
Lisa Gaines
My daughter recommended Bird By Bird several years ago. It’s past time to re-read it. Thank you for your post!
January 13, 2022 at 1:11 pm
Kathy Kelly
I need to get myself to a Chinese restaurant!
January 13, 2022 at 1:12 pm
Candace Spizzirri
Thank you, Melissa! Great post! I needed to hear this today!
January 13, 2022 at 1:12 pm
Dianne Borowski
I too have been resisting reading Bird by Bird. I guess it’s time to check it out of the library.
January 13, 2022 at 1:12 pm
Leslie Santamaria
Thank you for your transparency, Melissa, and for the fortune. I saved a copy of it to my photos!
January 13, 2022 at 1:13 pm
Robin Brett Wechsler
I love the inspiration, Melissa! Thank you for sharing your story. I’m excited to check out COMING OF AGE: 13 B’NAI MITZVAH STORIES.
January 13, 2022 at 1:13 pm
Barbara Kimmel
So glad you realized you are not a one-hit-wonder Milli Vanilli! I’ve just started writing (and reading) MG and loved your book. I can’t wait for “Coming of Age.” Congrats!
January 13, 2022 at 1:13 pm
Andrea Yomtob
I know a few people with the “one hit wonder” fears and the procrastination that can come with it. Great post on a topic many struggle with.
January 13, 2022 at 1:14 pm
greengirlblueplanet
I have a work-related excuse to get takeout now LOL thanks for sharing your story!
January 13, 2022 at 1:15 pm
Jennifer Roman
Thank you for your honest reflection about inspiration!
January 13, 2022 at 1:16 pm
Brigita O
I think the second novel is always harder than the first because everyone’s expectations are higher and that in itself is a recipe for a writer’s block. Thanks for sharing.
January 13, 2022 at 1:16 pm
Joyce Uglow
One by one, one idea by one idea… Here’s hoping that one day I have an idea that becomes a one-hit wonder that develops into more than that. My fingers are crossed, but that makes it hard to write. Thanks for the stories.
January 13, 2022 at 1:18 pm
Susan Korchak
SO true, Melissa. Judging ourselves harshly slams the brakes on creating. Love Bird by Bird. (It’s calming to hear Lamott read the audio version.) Congrats on your forthcoming book!
January 13, 2022 at 1:18 pm
Katie Marie
How interesting that your middle-grade novel began with a fortune cookie! A great reminder to look everywhere for inspiration.
January 13, 2022 at 1:18 pm
Earl @ The Chronicles Of A Children's Book Writer
I love looking for signs even if it’s just me giving them significance.
January 13, 2022 at 1:19 pm
Anita Banks
Love the fortune cookie inspiration.
January 13, 2022 at 1:20 pm
Kim A Larson
Congratulations on your short story being published! Thanks for the encouraging advice.
January 13, 2022 at 1:20 pm
tory
Loved it! I am going to use the word judgy-wudgy for inspiration in my next manuscript!
January 13, 2022 at 1:21 pm
Amanda
I’m currently working my way through The Artist’s Way and it’s helping keep me focused and in a good head space. Great to have the recommendation for Bird by Bird when I next need some inspiration and accountability! Thank you!
January 13, 2022 at 1:21 pm
Deb Buschman (@DebBuschman)
I just got another agent rejection. It was more disappointing than most because we had an hour Zoom meeting and we clicked(or so I thought) plus I sent her 5 manuscripts and she loved them. First the self doubt hit then I went right to anger and now I’m submitting again. No more judging myself. I can write!!!! Thanks for sharing your story Melissa.
January 17, 2022 at 1:49 pm
melissaroske
I’m so sorry to hear about this rejection, Deb. And after an hourlong Zoom meeting to boot! Remember: It only takes ONE “yes” to secure literary representation. You can do it! (And keep me posted!)
January 13, 2022 at 1:21 pm
Annie Guerra
I love “Bird by Bird.” Annie Guerra
January 13, 2022 at 1:23 pm
Jane Martin
Ideas from fortune cookies. I love it!
January 13, 2022 at 1:23 pm
ruthwilson48
I appreciate your honesty. Looking forward to reading Bird by Bird!
January 13, 2022 at 1:23 pm
Debi Boccanfuso
You have inspired me to reread BIrd By Bird….I loved it years ago!! And maybe I will have to order some Chinese food for dinner!!! You never know my destiny and inspiration for a great book might be in that fortune cookie tonight!
January 13, 2022 at 1:25 pm
authordebradaugherty
A loss of confidence, wondering if or when I can write a publishable story, that’s me. I find when I write for the joy of it, the words flow. Thanks for reminding us that all authors feel this way at times.
January 13, 2022 at 1:27 pm
Christine Graham
Great post. Now I’ll go look at my teeth again. And maybe work on a “dental draft.”
January 13, 2022 at 1:27 pm
cath jones
I’m off to find a fortune cookie!
January 13, 2022 at 1:28 pm
Linda Staszak
Very encouraging post. Thanks for sharing.
January 13, 2022 at 1:28 pm
polly renner
Thank You Melissa! And congrats on your latest books, too:>
January 13, 2022 at 1:30 pm
Judy Bradbury
Enjoyed hearing of your journey toward a fruitful return to the writing desk. Huzzah! Best wishes for continued success, Melissa.
January 13, 2022 at 1:30 pm
Alexis
Such a lovely message!
January 13, 2022 at 1:32 pm
Mary-Catherine Amadu
Thanks for the tips! I will have to look into Bird By Bird. I have a cynical side myself so perhaps it stands a chance ;). The self talk aspect of writing is so important, as it is in all areas of life!
January 13, 2022 at 1:33 pm
Linda Sakai
Your words make me want to keep pushing through. Thank you.
January 13, 2022 at 1:33 pm
Apryl
Bird by Bird is everything!
January 13, 2022 at 1:34 pm
Kate
I’m going to pay more attention to those cookie fortunes from now on!
January 13, 2022 at 1:34 pm
Jennifer Bukovec
Oh my goodness, Melissa! Thank you so much for sharing your story! It is so encouraging to know that inspiration can strike at any moment, and that, when it doesn’t, it’s okay; there are things we can do to keep ourselves going! I too have that book, Bird by Bird, and I came upon it in a really fateful way. I have been meaning to get back to reading it. – I am totally taking your post as a sign that it is time!! Thank you so much! Congratulations on all of your successes!
Xox Jen
January 13, 2022 at 1:35 pm
Kate Woodle
I’m going to pay more attention to those cookie fortunes from now on!
January 13, 2022 at 1:37 pm
Linda KulpTrout
Getting ride of the judge voice is so hard. I’m working on that!
January 13, 2022 at 1:38 pm
mdk45
The kindest thing we can do for ourselves is tuning out that inner critic. Love your positive message, Melissa.
January 13, 2022 at 1:38 pm
Rochelle Y Melander
Fun idea!
January 13, 2022 at 1:38 pm
kurtzmom548513
The fortune cookie inspiration was great! I too have saved fortunes and been unsure of their message untl a later time.I also plan to check out Bird by Bird. Thanks so much!
January 13, 2022 at 1:38 pm
vgraboski61gmailcom
Encouraging post! Thank you.
January 13, 2022 at 1:40 pm
Jenn Olsen
Your fortune cookie story is incredible! I love how inspiration can come from the wackiest of places.
January 13, 2022 at 1:42 pm
lynjekowsky
Fortune cookies and Bird by Bird. Thank you for these inspirations.
January 13, 2022 at 1:45 pm
Jennifer Rathe
I think I might need to go buy a case of fortune cookies!
January 13, 2022 at 1:47 pm
Joy Wieder
I’ve been in that deep dark place! No fun 😞 thanks for sharing your journey & your inspiration.
January 13, 2022 at 1:48 pm
jhall2018
Love this! As I couldn’t find any of the number of slips from fortune cookies I have secreted away somewhere “special,” I found an Open a Cookie generator and got this (ok, fine…after “opening” a dozen cookies…) “A new voyage will fill your life with untold memories.” Excited to brainstorm. Thank you!
January 13, 2022 at 1:50 pm
Daryl Gottier
Thanks so much! And now I can order take-out and justify it as research!!
January 13, 2022 at 1:50 pm
Debi Novotny
Thank you for sharing your inspiration, and addressing the feeling of self doubt that all authors experience. Congratulations on your success!
January 13, 2022 at 1:50 pm
aidantalkin
I really need to spend more time talking to the voices in my head, thanks!
January 13, 2022 at 1:51 pm
John McGranaghan
A very enjoyable read, loved the reference that a fortune cookie couldn’t help me this time.
January 13, 2022 at 1:53 pm
Sheri Radovich
Hmmm. I need to look into Bird by Bird she mentioned. I never save the fortune cookie papers. And my inner critic is very cynical right now so I need to silence her with the 10 new picture books from the library I am reading for mentor texts. And this wonderful story storm push.
January 13, 2022 at 1:54 pm
Debra Collins
Evidently I must start eating more Chinese food.
January 13, 2022 at 1:54 pm
savoringeverymoment
I love how you kept the fortune and it inspired you years later. Underscores the importance of these story storm lists: we never know when an idea will sprout a full blown story!
January 13, 2022 at 1:55 pm
Debra Collins
Actually, I’ve saved a fortune for decades: “Live like a fried egg. Sunny-side up!”
January 13, 2022 at 1:55 pm
Melanie Ellsworth
Thanks for sharing your writing struggles and hopes with us, Melissa. I am so glad to learn about your short story – I’ve ordered the book for a friend’s daughter who’s having her bat mitzvah soon.
January 13, 2022 at 1:56 pm
mona861
Thanks for sharing. Inspiration comes from the most unusual places and when least expected. mmmm…got to read this fortune cookie again.
January 13, 2022 at 1:57 pm
Deb McGarvey
Thanks for this encouragement – we can find inspiration in the most unexpected places. And for reminding us not to give up when inspiration doesn’t come easily, and doubt does.
January 13, 2022 at 1:58 pm
K. Yin
Congrats on your good fortune! 😉
January 13, 2022 at 1:58 pm
Sheri Radovich
Thank you for suggesting fortunes and Bird by Bird book. I was looking for some inspiration besides the stack of picture books from the library I picked up.
January 13, 2022 at 1:59 pm
Leah Marks
I have a fortune that I saved many years ago: Eat your vegetable(sic) and you’ll grow up big and strong like Popeye.
Well, I have been eating more vegetables since the pandemic hit. I am already grown. Maybe the next step is to become strong like Popeye and publish my stories. Thank you for your wonderful words.
January 13, 2022 at 1:59 pm
Melissa Stoller
I love hearing about your journey…I too keep special fortunes! Congratulations!
January 13, 2022 at 2:00 pm
Claire A. B. Freeland
Thank you for sharing your experience with writing ups and downs. Glad you’re on the up.
January 13, 2022 at 2:02 pm
Manju Beth Howard (@ManjuBeth)
I’m rewriting a middle grade ms. It’s not easy. The fact that you had one published is a major accomplishment.
January 13, 2022 at 2:02 pm
Armineh Manookian
Thank you Melissa for your honesty, vulnerability, and words of encouragement. Being a writer is not for the faint of heart!
January 13, 2022 at 2:02 pm
rindabeach
Inspiration IS everywhere! Thanks for letting me take a peek into how you found your story. I found my first manuscript because I held a bat on a mop in Germany. It’s still in my computer, waiting for me to find the right words.
January 13, 2022 at 2:06 pm
Mary
Melissa, I loved your comment, “judgy-wudgy voice inside your head!” I listen to that voice too much! I still haven’t quite figured out the fortune cookie thing, but, hey, it worked for you! Thanks for the words of encouragement.
January 13, 2022 at 2:07 pm
Laurie Kaiser
Thanks, Melissa, for your post. I love Anne Lamott! I agree she’s both humorous and helpful and I’m a cynical former journalist so I understand your reluctance. 🙂 I may go back and re-read Bird by Bird while trying to finish my own MG novel. And due to your post, I’ll be looking at fortune cookies in a whole new light. 🙂
January 13, 2022 at 2:07 pm
Alice Fulgione
Great post! I’ll have to check out Anne Lamott’s book!
January 13, 2022 at 2:14 pm
Kathleen Gauer
A few years ago, I opened up a fortune cookie containing this message: “You will become an accomplished writer.” It inspired me to keep writing and publish my fourth picture book.
January 13, 2022 at 2:15 pm
lmconnors
Funny post. Glad you got unstuck!
January 13, 2022 at 2:15 pm
Nancy Ferguson
Melissa, Thanks for sharing your fortune! I’m glad you are back into the writing.
January 13, 2022 at 2:15 pm
Andria Rosenbaum
Hope is something all creatives crave. That and good fortune!
January 13, 2022 at 2:16 pm
Cathy Lentes
Love Bird by Bird for those moments (days, weeks, months…) when I need a laugh and a lift. And fortune cookies often offer riddling wisdom. I’m so glad you found your stories, and your way! Thanks for sharing.
January 13, 2022 at 2:16 pm
Brandon Rodriguez
I have always loved using the fortune cookies as means of inspiration for art since my days in art school. While they can be vague, it allows your creativity to grow in ways you might not expect. Thanks
January 13, 2022 at 2:17 pm
Colleen Owen Murphy
Melissa, I love the honesty of your post. And now I want to read BIRD BY BIRD! Thank you!
January 13, 2022 at 2:19 pm
Lizzie Maxwell
Love your vulnerability and your ability to express everything I think!
January 13, 2022 at 2:21 pm
Barbara Senenman
Love saving fortunes from fortune cookies. I should read them to see what ideas emerge. Thank you for the reminder. And we do have to be as positive as what’s written on most of these ‘fortunes.’
January 13, 2022 at 2:21 pm
Eileen Mayo
I loved your inspirational post! Thanks for sharing. Us Californians try not to be too new-agey 😉
January 13, 2022 at 2:24 pm
jennahammondauthor
This guest blog post was so perfectly written & genuine, I had to comment! Here’s to lots of good fortune(s). Pardon the pun.
January 13, 2022 at 2:25 pm
srkckass
Great post! Also, thank you for giving me a fabulous excuse to order Chinese takeout today.
January 13, 2022 at 2:26 pm
Gabi Snyder
I have a cupful of fortune cookies somewhere. I need to sift through those for inspiration! Thanks for the great post, Melissa, and the reminder to reread Bird By Bird.
January 13, 2022 at 2:30 pm
Marla Yablon
Thanks for the encouragement we all need!
January 13, 2022 at 2:31 pm
lizluvselephants
I am so inspired by honesty! This is such a wonderful post! This one I’m keeping! 🙂
January 13, 2022 at 2:32 pm
lizluvselephants
This is such a wonderful post! I am so inspired by the honest sharing of a journey! This post I am keeping – in a drawer, like a fortune paper.
January 13, 2022 at 2:34 pm
Susie Sawyer
I don’t need a whole lot of reasons to crack open a fortune cookie, but this is a good one! Also, thank you for the reminder to read BIRD BY BIRD. Congratulations on all your success, and thank you for this wonderful, personal post!
January 13, 2022 at 2:37 pm
Kate
It is our good fortune that you shared today! Love it!
January 13, 2022 at 2:38 pm
Cathy Stefanec Ogren
I enjoyed reading your post! Thanks for sharing your writing journey.
January 13, 2022 at 2:39 pm
Olivia
Thank you Melissa 😊
January 13, 2022 at 2:40 pm
Linda Silvestri
Your post really spoke to me in so many ways. The bonus is discovering “Bird by Bird.” Thanks for the inspiration!
January 13, 2022 at 2:40 pm
AC Perry
My great-grandmother’s name was Anna Merle! Can’t wait to read your story. Thank you for the post!
January 13, 2022 at 2:41 pm
rosecappelli
I know that judgy voice! I hear it all the time. Thanks for the encouragement, for sharing your journey, and for the idea. Congratulations on your upcoming book!
January 13, 2022 at 2:41 pm
Writer on the run
Ah, yes! Bird by Bird- I am putting it on my re-read list for this year. Thanks for reminding me about the wisdom of that book. I over your description of an idea leap-frogging into your brain- I had not had that happen until this past Christmas season when a character suddenly showed up and he won’t leave me alone. I have no choice but to write his story- the mere fact it happened makes me hopeful.
January 13, 2022 at 2:41 pm
Lauren Barbieri
Thank you for the post—I love the fortune cookie inspiration—and congratulations on your work in the anthology.
January 13, 2022 at 2:42 pm
David McMullin
Thank you for the encouragement!
January 13, 2022 at 2:44 pm
Suzanne Lewis
I love your personal journey share, Melissa! Your angst honesty is so relatable and balanced by your openness to serendipitous events, really hopeful and encouraging. Thank you for your insight and suggestions for working through the dark days to once again see the sun on the horizon!
January 13, 2022 at 2:45 pm
Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator
Thank you, I enjoyed reading about your writing journey. When I hear others have blank periods, it helps but my doubts in perspective. Now I want to eat at a Chinese restaurant to get my fortune cookie.
January 13, 2022 at 2:46 pm
Sara Ackerman
Thanks for sharing these insights!
January 13, 2022 at 2:49 pm
Renata Wurster
Love that your inspiration for your first book came from a fortune cookie! That is fabulous! Hope you keep the judge voice at bay. It can be a tricky task that we all know for sure!
January 13, 2022 at 2:49 pm
jbbower
Thank you for an inspiring post! I’m off to buy a box of fortune cookies : )
January 13, 2022 at 2:50 pm
Lynn McCracken
I love the story of your writing journey. I think everyone who writes can relate to it. Thank you for posting!
January 13, 2022 at 2:57 pm
Dawn Mitchell
Thanks for sharing.
January 13, 2022 at 2:57 pm
Sallye O'Rourke
Imagine that, a fortune cookie! I, too, love Bird by Bird.
January 13, 2022 at 2:58 pm
Leah Moser
Thank you for this post!
January 13, 2022 at 2:58 pm
Janie Reinart
Thanks for cheering us on.❤️
January 13, 2022 at 2:59 pm
TL Fales
I keep waiting for a sassy protagonist to pop into my head, but so far no luck. Thanks for the encouragement to keep going anyway.
January 13, 2022 at 2:59 pm
Holly
That judgy wudgy voice sure has not been helpful. It feels better to know I’m not alone. And that there’s hope for a path out!
January 13, 2022 at 3:02 pm
Heather Stigall
Thanks for encouraging us to get back to the joyfulness of writing and do the work!
January 13, 2022 at 3:03 pm
Juliana Jones
Stupid self-loathing! So glad you found your way back to writing! I haven’t read Bird by Bird in years; it’s still on my shelf, so maybe it’s time to revisit.
January 13, 2022 at 3:08 pm
Anne Louise Wan
Here’s to kicking self-loathing and judgmentalism to the kerb! Hurray! Thank you for your honest and encouraging post!
January 13, 2022 at 3:08 pm
Sareen McLay
Thank you, it’s so helpful to hear the stories of authors and how their books came into the world. I often think of Anne Lamott and ‘Bird by Bird.’ Great post!
January 13, 2022 at 3:11 pm
ldodson100
Yes to it all. Now, to rolling up the sleeves and getting to work.
January 13, 2022 at 3:17 pm
Amy Bradshaw
It’s amazing where ideas can come from! Thanks for your sharing your writing journey with us!
January 13, 2022 at 3:19 pm
susan contreras
thank you
January 13, 2022 at 3:21 pm
Perky Smith
Thank you for sharing your angst. We all bare it and hopefully release it with the help of all the universe offers: friends, family, muses, and yes, the dear, incredibly hilarious Annie Lamott. I was just trying to love my “aunties” (Plan B:Further Thoughts on Faith) enough to wear a bathing suit here in Maui.
January 13, 2022 at 3:23 pm
Cheryl Simon
Love this post and can’t wait to read your new book!
January 13, 2022 at 3:23 pm
Deborah Agranat Sullivan
Your inspiration is inspiring, Melissa! Great stuff…not to mention your very generous prizes. Thanks for sharing your pearls!
January 13, 2022 at 3:25 pm
Susan Jobsky
Thank you. Inspiration does come from the strangest places or events at times. My latest inspiration came from a kayaking trip that didn’t happen. My trick is to jot down notes when those strange inspiring things pop into my life so I remember details when I have time to write.
January 13, 2022 at 3:28 pm
Cinzia
Your fortune turned into good fortune for us! Thanks for sharing this honest and fortunate post! And it tickled my brain with an idea!
January 13, 2022 at 3:29 pm
Lenora (can't stop, won't stop writing) Biemans (@BiemansLenora)
So, fun Melissa. I love fortune cookie messages. Thanks for sharing your story and congratulations!
January 13, 2022 at 3:29 pm
thelogonauts
I love this idea! Now I’m hungry for fortune cookies … I mean, inspiration. 😉
January 13, 2022 at 3:37 pm
kirstenbockblog
Thank you for being so honest about your struggles. We all have them and it’s important to remember that we are not alone.
January 13, 2022 at 3:44 pm
bevbaird
What an inspiring post. Hearing those judgy voices has held me back. Your message to kick them to the curb and keep writing is exactly what I need to hear. Thanks
January 13, 2022 at 3:46 pm
Maria Marshall
This has been a tough time for so many. Thank you for your honesty and advice on ways to counter the insidious “you suck” voice that plauges so many of us. Congrats of beating it.
January 13, 2022 at 3:46 pm
Marilyn R Garcia
Dare I say to the judgy-wudgy sassy New Yorker that this is a deeply inspiring post? I dare. Thank you.
January 13, 2022 at 3:46 pm
Cristina Chan
I definitely needed this inspirational post right now. Thank you!
January 13, 2022 at 3:49 pm
Sue Heavenrich
I am a collector of cookie fortunes – you never know when a good idea might be lurking in a cookie. Or under the lid of a snapple bottle. or on the inside of a dove dark chocolate wrapper….
January 13, 2022 at 3:52 pm
Valerie K Fentress
Thanks for a great post! So encouraging to keep at the work of writing stories
January 13, 2022 at 4:01 pm
pathaap
You never know where you will find your inspiration! Thanks for the encouraging post!
January 13, 2022 at 4:03 pm
Rona Shirdan
It’s so funny – I’ve had a fortune cookie fortune thumb-tacked to the bulletin board in my office for the past two years. I need to read it again and see if a story lurks inside. Thanks for the tip. I can make use of that fortune after all!
January 13, 2022 at 4:03 pm
nrompella
Yes! I’ve been there too of feeling stuck. Thanks for sharing.
January 13, 2022 at 4:06 pm
NC Karuzis
Thank you for the words of encouragement. Just what I needed today, when I’ve been feeling my wheels spinning in a rut. Think I’ll go visit with Anne Lamott, too. Love her wisdom.
January 13, 2022 at 4:09 pm
rebeccaupjohn
What a wonderful message, Melissa. Thank you. Timely for me as I too have been caught in that dark space between fear and self loathing.
January 13, 2022 at 4:12 pm
Kimberly Marcus
Thank you for your post!! Glad you persevered. 🙂
January 13, 2022 at 4:15 pm
Christine Van Zandt, author of A BRIEF HISTORY OF UNDERPANTS
I knew those fortune cookie messages held a secret meaning: the next book idea! Thanks for the inspiration because we all have those self-doubts.
January 13, 2022 at 4:16 pm
amievc
Thanks for this reminder to keep going…bird by bird.
January 13, 2022 at 4:16 pm
Danielle Hammelef
From other author interviews, I know this “one-hit-wonder” fear is very common and I’m so happy that you once again found the joy in creating. I’m trying to find that for myself now.
January 13, 2022 at 4:18 pm
brontebrown2
“I slowly added…before I knew it I created a world.” Inspiration takes time, writing takes time but each step taken is almost there.
January 13, 2022 at 4:18 pm
serenagingoldallen
Great encouraging words! And happy to hear that you’re not a one-hit wonder!
January 13, 2022 at 4:20 pm
chardixon47
Thank you for sharing, Melissa. Anne Lamott’s, BIRD BY BIRD, is in my go-to library.
January 13, 2022 at 4:20 pm
naturewalkwithgod
Thank you for sharing how inspiration worked for you. 🙂 –Kim Peterson
January 13, 2022 at 4:31 pm
Elena Horne
I love it when inspiration shows up in random real world places!
January 13, 2022 at 4:32 pm
Laurel Ranveig Abell
I keep lots of fortune cookies for inspiration. One I taped over my desk says: Your dearest dream is coming true. I think of it as a promise and I write with that promise tucked into my heart like it was once tucked inside a cookie. Hmm, maybe there is a pb story in there! Got my 16th idea, thank you very much!!!!!!
January 13, 2022 at 4:32 pm
rozanark
Thank you for your honesty, it’s a fear that many of us have.
January 13, 2022 at 4:34 pm
Patricia Oppenheim
A fortune cookie created your fortune. But only after your imagination took hold of it. How fascinating! Thanks for sharing about your writing journey.
January 13, 2022 at 4:35 pm
michelemeleen
Great ideas here! I have loads of fortunes laying around, time to grab some inspiration.
January 13, 2022 at 4:41 pm
girlscout72091
Yes, inspiration can come in many places for sure!
January 13, 2022 at 4:46 pm
Jennifer Weisse
Kat Greene sounds so fun! Thank you for the great advice and words of encouragement!
January 13, 2022 at 4:48 pm
Kris Tarantino
I need to get a bag of fortune cookies!
January 13, 2022 at 4:48 pm
Julia Lyon
I did not know about that Anne Lamott book. Requesting it from the library right now!
January 13, 2022 at 4:57 pm
Sydnie Kleinhenz
Mazel tov on the inspiration and writing success!
January 13, 2022 at 5:00 pm
mkm7827
I found your story and honesty about the difficulty in writing quite inspiring, thank you for sharing!
January 13, 2022 at 5:01 pm
Ann Page
Melissa,
Great story! Thanks for sharing. I’m going to need to eat more fortune cookies! 🥠 Can’t wait to read your MG novel!
January 13, 2022 at 5:01 pm
Donna Marx
Thanks for the sound advice.
January 13, 2022 at 5:09 pm
Margie Markarian
I’m going to check the stash of fortunes in my car door’s secret compartment now! Thanks for the insights!
January 13, 2022 at 5:10 pm
anchance
Inspiration is a crazy thing. I completely agree that it can come from some weird places. Thanks for the tips!
January 13, 2022 at 5:11 pm
Savannah Rogers
I love hearing some of your roller coaster journey. It’s a good reminder to keep adding things to my “drawer” even when I’m not in a writing mode, ready for the next surge of creative zealousness. Thank goodness for fortune cookies!
January 13, 2022 at 5:14 pm
Tara Cerven
Self doubt can be crippling. Thank you for the great advice and tips!
January 13, 2022 at 5:18 pm
Elayne
A great reminder to 1) enjoy some fortune cookies soon, and 2) break out Bird by Bird, because it’s definitely one that deserves several readings. 🙂
January 13, 2022 at 5:18 pm
wordnerd153
I recently finished Bird by Bird and know it’s a book I will return to often. So happy you kept plugging away. I loved Kat Greene, so I’m excited about your new book!
January 13, 2022 at 5:19 pm
Jill Purtee (P. J.)
I think I’ll order Chinese food tonight (with a cookie).
January 13, 2022 at 5:20 pm
Kate Lynch
Great post!! Loved it. Thank you SO much for sharing your story. I’ll lol out fir those fortune cookie messages for sure;)
Kate
January 13, 2022 at 5:23 pm
sarahsteinberg
I’ve definitely heard second books are harder than first books… and I KNOW the pandemic isn’t helping. Thanks for sharing and keep at it!!
January 13, 2022 at 5:24 pm
Stephanie S
Great post! I know that I often find myself in a cloud of doubt about my writing. Thanks for sharing with us.
January 13, 2022 at 5:24 pm
Kaye Baillie
Great post, Melissa! So glad you found your ‘can do’ mojo.
January 13, 2022 at 5:24 pm
Sylvia Mary Grech
Thanks for your post! I sure can relate to your feelings in the writing process…especially since the pandemic hit.
January 13, 2022 at 5:27 pm
Marci Whitehurst
Thanks for sharing! Congrats on your books!
January 13, 2022 at 5:28 pm
Catherine
“Inspiration comes from everywhere”, this is so true. Thank you for your inspiring article. It’s been some time since I cracked opened a fortune cookie, but off I go! Congratulations on your new book!
January 13, 2022 at 5:30 pm
Diane O'Neill
Thanks so much for sharing your story and your words of wisdom. I look forward to reading your books!
January 13, 2022 at 5:33 pm
Poupette
Thank you for your honest encouragement and link to interesting MUF interview.
January 13, 2022 at 5:35 pm
Buffy Silverman
Congratulations on your good fortune. And yes, I can relate to the fear and self-loathing–something many of us must overcome.
January 13, 2022 at 5:35 pm
Juliann Caveny
Love it! I’m an avid fortune cookie reader and will definitely dig through my purse again!
January 13, 2022 at 5:39 pm
Sarah Hetu
Melissa, the part of your article that struck me is probably not the part you meant: “I went into a very dark place. Then the pandemic hit, and the place grew even darker.” Didn’t it, though? I think someone should expand upon that and write an article about writers connecting during the time of COVID, or even just people connecting during the pandemic and lockdown…such a lonely, dark time….
January 13, 2022 at 5:42 pm
lindakaychavezbooks
Inspiration IS weird, isn’t it? Thanks for sharing your experience! You’ve set my mind buzzing!
January 13, 2022 at 5:43 pm
Sarah Hetu-Radny
PLEASE don’t kill me if this is a repeat response–I scanned the entire list of comments and I don’t think my first attempt at commenting worked. It was a good long one, too–not going to rewrite all of it…just… thank you!
January 13, 2022 at 5:43 pm
carmelamccainsimmons
I am halfway through Anne Lamott’s BIRD BY BIRD after not writing much anything new for months and your words ring so true right now! Her book and your blogpost are balms helping me back to the joy of creating. Thanks so much!
January 13, 2022 at 5:44 pm
Sarah Hetu-Radny
Tara, I’m sorry… I messed up with wordpress and so I ended up submitting TWO comments to your storystorm post for today. You can remove the second one. Please don’t disqualify me. Sarah
On Thu, Jan 13, 2022 at 11:47 AM Writing for Kids (While Raising Them) wrote:
> Tara Lazar posted: “by Melissa Roske Inspiration is weird. It comes at the > strangest times, in the strangest places. The inspiration for my > middle-grade novel, KAT GREENE COMES CLEAN, came stuffed inside a fortune > cookie. Here’s what it said: A winsome smile is your su” >
January 13, 2022 at 5:47 pm
Audrey
Love this! And I want to read both books 🙂
January 13, 2022 at 5:51 pm
McKelle Anderson
Thank you for your honest and inspirational post. I think a lot of us can relate to pandemic-powered writer’s block!
January 13, 2022 at 5:54 pm
triciacandy
Thank you, Melissa, for the much needed reminder!
January 13, 2022 at 5:57 pm
E T Charles
Loved the fortune cookie inspiration and the rest of the post. Thank you.
January 13, 2022 at 6:01 pm
Afsheen
Hi Melissa I am a pb writer. The opening of your story strom is rocking. I always get inspiration when I was washing.
Thanks
January 13, 2022 at 6:02 pm
Nancy Ramsey
This was a great post! Thanks for sharing your story!
January 13, 2022 at 6:04 pm
loricevans
I have used the Bird-by-Bird story many times with my kids to help them get through school assignment crises and other task-oriented life crises. And myself. Love it. And now, I’m gonna think about fortune cookie fortunes I’ve known and loved. I hardly get them now, as I live in a place where there is almost no Chinese food available, but maybe I’m gonna have to order a big box on Amazon!
January 13, 2022 at 6:05 pm
Judy Sobanski
I have heard so much about Bird by Bird. I think I’m going to have to get myself a copy. Thanks for the advice. Congratulations on your short story and good luck with your two MG novels.
January 13, 2022 at 6:16 pm
Genevieve Petrillo
I never resisted Bird by Bird because I never heard of it. So OK, now I will read it. Thanks.
January 13, 2022 at 6:16 pm
Shirley fadden
Congratulations! I’ve quoted the bird by bird to my kids over the years. Maybe I’ll pull it out again. Thanks!
January 13, 2022 at 6:16 pm
Diane M
Your story was inspiring. Thanks.
January 13, 2022 at 6:19 pm
Jane Heitman Healy
Melissa, I love how you said that you wrote and wrote and wrote—just to get to know your character, and THEN the story could find its way. Congratulations, and here’s to continued ideas and success.
January 13, 2022 at 6:23 pm
Stephanie Owen
Thank you for the inspiration!
January 13, 2022 at 6:23 pm
Stephen S. Martin
You are what you say you are – I Am a Writer!
January 13, 2022 at 6:24 pm
Connie Van Horn
Thank you for the inspiration and encouragement!! I need to start eating fortune cookies!!
January 13, 2022 at 6:28 pm
Christine M Irvin
I’ll have to start paying closer attention to the messages in my fortune cookies!
January 13, 2022 at 6:28 pm
ofmariaantonia
I love that you found your inspiration in a fortune cookie! 🙂
January 13, 2022 at 6:29 pm
Pamela Brunskill
Such a fun post! Thank you! I have fortune cookie sayings that I like hung in my writing bulletin board. Who knows. Maybe one of them will turn into a story someday.
January 13, 2022 at 6:32 pm
stephaniemstories
Great post for encouragement. Thank you for sharing.
January 13, 2022 at 6:32 pm
marty
HI Melissa, A fortune out of a cookie becomes your first novel! I can’t wait to read it. I love Bird By Bird and Anne Lamott’s sense of humor. My favorite it the way she spelled great when she was congratulating a successful author – GRight!!! I love her honesty. I’m encouraged to know that I can always open a fortune cookie, because, you never know! Thanks so much for posting for all of us to see the magic of ideas we could find rummaging around in a desk drawer and discovering something we didn’t throw out—for some strange reason.
January 13, 2022 at 6:35 pm
Meredith Fraser
Thank you for the info. I am ordering BIRD BY BIRD now!!
Congratulations on your books!
January 13, 2022 at 6:36 pm
Lori
I love reading how your idea came!
January 13, 2022 at 6:38 pm
seschipper
Thanks Melissa! I think I will begin to pay closer attention to my Fortune Cookies from now on! 🙂
January 13, 2022 at 6:48 pm
Michele Helsel
I guess I should break down and read Bird by bird.
January 13, 2022 at 6:50 pm
mariamarianayagam
Great advice! Thank you!
January 13, 2022 at 6:54 pm
Aly Kenna
Thank you Melissa, for your honest post. Anne Lamott’s book is definitely a must have for writers. Congratulations for pushing beyond your inner critic.
January 13, 2022 at 6:54 pm
Dannielle Viera
So many writers recommend Bird by Bird – it’s time that I read this amazing book!
January 13, 2022 at 6:55 pm
steveheron
Thanks for sharing
January 13, 2022 at 7:13 pm
Phyllis Mignard
Your process gives me hope. Thanks for sharing.
January 13, 2022 at 7:15 pm
lsheroan
Thank you! This sparked an idea for me.
January 13, 2022 at 7:16 pm
Carole Marie
Thank you for the great tips!
January 13, 2022 at 7:19 pm
karinlarson
I really appreciated reading your story, thank you. Very inspiring! I love fortunes:)
January 13, 2022 at 7:19 pm
Chelle Martin
Thanks for sharing.
January 13, 2022 at 7:29 pm
Reed Hilton-Eddy
Love the honesty of this. Love Anne’s book and yes to shift one’s headspace to grounded, self love, compassion are hard, but essential.
Thanks for highlighting highs and lows.
January 13, 2022 at 7:45 pm
Bethanny Parker
I guess I should start collecting fortune cookies.
January 13, 2022 at 7:48 pm
Susan Eyerman
A wonderful result from a little cookie prize. Thanks!!!
January 13, 2022 at 7:55 pm
sue macartney
Thank you for sharing your journey and the always timely reminder, that you have to be ready to do the work!
January 13, 2022 at 7:57 pm
staceygustafson
The pandemic has immobilized me as well. Time to get off my butt and turn ideas into picture books.
January 13, 2022 at 8:00 pm
Karen Gebbia
thank you for sharing your story and insights, best wishes
January 13, 2022 at 8:05 pm
Sue Newton
Thanks so much for this. I have just ordered Bird by Bird…anything with humour and hope works for me! Love how the message in the fortune cookie laid low for a while and popped up to inspire you when the time was right (which reflects what Katey said on day 10 about planting a seed).
Inspiration is everywhere, we just need to trust ourselves to see it, save it and use when ready!
January 13, 2022 at 8:15 pm
triciahinely
I’m inspired by your honesty and vulnerability. We all want hope and your sharing gives us that. GO AWAY little voices that say you don’t have what it takes and you’re not good enough. Also telling us we have to do the work! I’d rather hear how easy it is, but then we wouldn’t feel so good about our writing if it was too easy!
January 13, 2022 at 8:19 pm
bonnie fireUrchin ~ pb illustration & writing
First of all, I can’t keep myself from sharing that I had mixed feelings about Anne Lamott’s book being too snarky! Ok, now that this is out of the way. I have had some fortune cookie writings that got onto my fridge for years and never even thought to mine them for a story. Woah. And I’m curious now to know how your writing got chosen for the anthology. Thanks for sharing bit of your journey. It’s been a long time since I’ve had any fortune cookies… might have to order takeout.
January 13, 2022 at 8:24 pm
Natasha Garnett
Thanks, Melissa. I’ve read many a clever fortune over the years, and eaten many a crunchy cookie. But you’ve got me pondering our most recent Chinese take-out on Jan 9th.
There were no fortune cookies! Is there a PB plot here?
January 13, 2022 at 8:32 pm
ingridboydston
Now I have perfectly valid reason for getting Chinese take out. Thank you for that…and the expert advice!
January 13, 2022 at 8:34 pm
Yvette Pais
Melissa, congratulations on your new book! This is just an amazing and fun post to read. I love the idea of reading fortune cookies. Also thank you for suggesting Anne Lamott’s iconic craft book, BIRD BY BIRD. Regards, Yvette
January 13, 2022 at 8:36 pm
tinamcho
Love that you got your idea from a fortune cookie!
January 13, 2022 at 8:36 pm
Keri Collins Lewis
I love your candor. Time to dig in & do the work!
January 13, 2022 at 8:37 pm
Lucretia Schafroth
Thank you, Melissa, for sharing your personal experience with each extreme of writing inspiration–I appreciate your candor. Kudos to you for persevering through the “dry spell” and congratulations on your latest success!
January 13, 2022 at 8:41 pm
Andrea MacDonald
You Storystorm stars never cease to amaze me with your sources of inspiration. Hoping my big break is as close as the next order of Ginger Beef. Thanks for sharing your intriguing approach.
January 13, 2022 at 8:47 pm
heidikyates
Thank you for sharing this message, Melissa!
January 13, 2022 at 8:48 pm
Charlotte Offsay
Thank you!
January 13, 2022 at 8:51 pm
Charlene Patton
Thanks for sharing, Melissa! I have Anne Lamott’s Bird By Bird and loved it too. The one fortune Cookie message I’ve held onto reads: You will become an accomplished writer. 😃
January 13, 2022 at 8:54 pm
annettepimentel
Your description of those difficult moments resonates!
January 13, 2022 at 8:55 pm
andynarwhal
Love BIRD BY BIRD, also after some resistance due to the whiff of New Agey-ness. Also inspired by THE WAR OF ART by Steven Pressfield if you’re looking for something less spiritual, more pragmatic.
January 13, 2022 at 9:03 pm
claudine108
I love your story, Melissa! Congratulations on your success!
January 13, 2022 at 9:03 pm
writeremmcbride
Thank you, Melissa! I have gone back and forth with BIRD BY BIRD for the same reasons, love Steven Pressfield’s informative style 🙂 in THE WAR OF ART, and am taking a look at David Usher’s LET THE ELEPHANT’S RUN, and ART AND FEAR by Bayles and Orland right now. I do think that the strange times folks have been through lately with constant readjustment and unpredictable changes have made drawing from one’s creativity even more difficult. One thing that has helped has been looking for creative inspiration in different places than I did before the pandemic (and the routines it has disrupted). Perhaps that may help others too. Thank you for your post!
January 13, 2022 at 9:03 pm
tinefg
Thank you thank you, I cannot say it enough, such timely advice ” tune out the judgey wudgey voice”. I needed to hear this (and hear it, and hear it…)!
January 13, 2022 at 9:04 pm
Kay
Ideas can pop up anywhere
January 13, 2022 at 9:09 pm
Trine Grillo
I love how ideas show up and sometimes many years later. Great post!
January 13, 2022 at 9:15 pm
karenlee
Thanks for your insights!
January 13, 2022 at 9:17 pm
flinn321
I don’t know that I’ve ever related to something more in my entire life. I am definitely at that place where I need to either sit down and do the work…or crack open a fortune cookie. Thanks for this!
January 13, 2022 at 9:17 pm
Lonna Hill
Thanks for the very encouraging post!
January 13, 2022 at 9:22 pm
Lindsey Aduskevich (@LAduskevich)
Your story looks wonderful! I will add that to my list of reads. Thank you so much for sharing your darkest times. It is always helpful to know that we all go through this and that inspiration will always come back.
January 13, 2022 at 9:27 pm
Jessica Potts
Thanks for the inspiration!
January 13, 2022 at 9:28 pm
Mary Warth
Thanks for your post Melissa!
January 13, 2022 at 9:31 pm
Stephanie Gibeault
What a great behind the scenes story! Thank you for sharing. I’ve had some inspiring fortune cookies too.
January 13, 2022 at 9:34 pm
rosihollinbeck
Yesterday obituaries, today fortune cookies. I guess inspiration can come from anywhere! Thanks for a fun post.
January 13, 2022 at 9:39 pm
TheHugBooks (@Hug_Books)
Inspired me to use the next thing I picked up. Loving the challenge!
January 13, 2022 at 9:40 pm
rbkrackeler
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen fear discussed around writing (and life!), and deep down I know it’s part of what keeps me from writing a lot of the time. Thank you for this post-I need to face my fears!
January 13, 2022 at 9:41 pm
Sue Fritz
I love this! It’s funny where ideas come from.
January 13, 2022 at 9:42 pm
matthewlasley
I love this. Inspiration can come from anywhere.
And it is so true that you can really feel down and a fraud when you have a book come out and it takes a while for the second. Mine will be 4 years apart and I often wondered if the first was a fluke.
January 13, 2022 at 9:46 pm
Diana Marie Linton
After I read your post, I got so excited to open the three uneaten fortune cookies sitting in my kitchen! I started with one “A friend’s advice is invaluable”
January 13, 2022 at 9:49 pm
jillcstuck
Now I want to bake cookies. But also have an image of a kid cracking open all the cookies in the pantry looking for a fortune.
January 13, 2022 at 9:55 pm
Janet Smart
Thanks so much for the post and congratulations!
January 13, 2022 at 9:58 pm
Andrea Mack
I love your “never give up” attitude! Sounds like it paid off!
January 13, 2022 at 10:00 pm
Ellie Langford
I’m imagining s child getting a fortune cookie – Something wonderful is going to happen today – and she spent the day looking for something wongerful and discovered all kinds of wonderful things. Thanks Heidi!
January 13, 2022 at 10:04 pm
Ellie Langford
Sorry, Melissa.
January 13, 2022 at 10:03 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
Thank you, Melissa, for sharing your good fortune and inspiration.
Suzy Leopold
January 13, 2022 at 10:06 pm
Becki Kidd
Tasty. You had me hungry for the fortune
January 13, 2022 at 10:07 pm
marty bellis
You’ve made me ready to reread Bird by Bird. Or maybe I’ll just go buy a fortune cookie! Thanks for sharing your ups and downs with us; it helps to know others struggle with the same bouts of doubt and discouragement.
January 13, 2022 at 10:10 pm
Jennie H
This is inspiring. Yes to doing the work and getting past the fear and self- loathing the creeps up!
January 13, 2022 at 10:10 pm
beckylevine
Great post, thanks!;
January 13, 2022 at 10:16 pm
Brittney
Thanks for the insight and tips!
January 13, 2022 at 10:17 pm
Amy Newbold
Writing is such a roller coaster! Thanks for sharing your journey. And I think I should start saving the interesting fortunes from those cookies 😉
January 13, 2022 at 10:19 pm
viviankirkfield
Thanks so much for the inspiration and the good advice, Melissa. I’m a NYC girl, too. And a big fan of fortune cookies!
January 13, 2022 at 10:20 pm
Brandy Dixon
I appreciate the honesty. It IS sometimes hard to get past the negative feelings and actually write!
January 13, 2022 at 10:37 pm
Jaime
Thanks for the inspiration.
January 13, 2022 at 10:45 pm
🌱 𝚁𝚎𝚋𝚎𝚔𝚊𝚑 𝙻𝚘𝚠𝚎𝚕𝚕 🌻 (@RebekahLowell)
Thank you so much for sharing with us so deeply. You got this! I loved Kat Greene and you have more where that came from! For sure!! ❤
January 13, 2022 at 10:46 pm
Emily Bertholf
I love that your idea came from a fortune cookie; but even better, is this line: The kidlit equivalent of Milli Vanilli. Ha.Ha.Ha. Great post and congratulations on your books!
January 13, 2022 at 10:47 pm
Natalie Lynn Tanner
MELISSA: WOW! I SO NEEDED TO HEAR THIS! THANK YOU for being SO open and honest about your own experience in order to help those of us on similar roads. THANK YOU for sharing your message of hope and GOOD FORTUNE with us, TOO! TRULY GRATEFUL for the INSPIRATION to KEEP ON WRITING AND HOPING ON!!!
January 13, 2022 at 10:47 pm
marcia dalphin williams
Thanks Melissa for the confidence booster. Inspiration seems to hide behind every corner and maybe in every cookie. Congratulations.
January 13, 2022 at 10:47 pm
Marcia Berneger
Thanks for reminding us that ideas can come from anywhere and everywhere.
January 13, 2022 at 10:50 pm
jesseannabornemann
Long-time Anne Lamott fan here—glad to find someone who shares my enthusiasm for Bird by Bird! Traveling Mercies was my go-to inspirational read throughout college and young adulthood, and I still need to crack it open once in a while. Thanks for this reassuring post!
January 13, 2022 at 10:51 pm
Michelle Losardo
Thank you, Melissa. I went to a bookstore this past weekend to by BIRD BY BIRD. They didn’t have it in stock, so I decided that I really didn’t need it. Your post has motivated me to order it and finally read it! Sounds like my kind of book!
January 13, 2022 at 10:55 pm
Tonya K. Grant
I’m glad I’m not the only person who has kept a fortune from a fortune cookie for years. Thanks for sharing!
January 13, 2022 at 10:58 pm
Clement, Laura
Yeah, that’s a great cookie. Thank you for sharing it with us and all the other great nuggets.
January 13, 2022 at 11:08 pm
YauMei Chiang
Sources of inspiration can be found anywhere and everywhere. Thank you, Melissa for sharing.
January 13, 2022 at 11:12 pm
mariearden
Talk about fortune cookie fortunes tucked in desk drawers, I recently discovered a whole story I wrote about fortune cookie fortunes in one of my computer files. And it’s only from early last year. Did the stresses of the pandemic erase its memory from my mind? Glad I found it even though it needs tons of work.
January 13, 2022 at 11:37 pm
susanzonca
Melissa, thank you for sharing your journey and for the encouragement to keep doing the work. Now to find that fortune cookie!
January 13, 2022 at 11:46 pm
Annelouise Mahoney
Melissa, thank you for sharing your struggle, and your courage to face the dark stuff to create another book. I can’t wait to read, COMING OF AGE: 13 B’ NAIMITZVAH STORIES. I’m also excited to wait and see what book you create next. Thank you for sharing inspiration and encouragement.
January 13, 2022 at 11:47 pm
Karen Lawler
Fortune cookies are a real idea opener!!! And you are right… sometimes they don’t make sense😮. Thanks for the fun words!😊
January 13, 2022 at 11:48 pm
Jessica Coupé
Thanks for the tips and inspiration. Am looking up a fortune cookie generator now.
January 13, 2022 at 11:49 pm
Lindsay Bartlett
Thank you for your honesty about the writing process. I look forward to reading your work and checking out Bird by Bird as well.
January 14, 2022 at 12:13 am
Alicia Shawn Gagnon
“Good ideas are in our futures.”
Thank you!
January 14, 2022 at 12:22 am
Virginia Rinkel
You have such good ideas. Thank you for the tips and inspiring story.
January 14, 2022 at 12:23 am
Haley Thomas
Love the inspirational story. Bird by Bird is a great resource as well. Thank you!
January 14, 2022 at 12:23 am
Virginia Rinkel
Thank you for your good ideas and your honesty about doing the work.
January 14, 2022 at 12:24 am
Virginia Rinkel
I entered my comment, but I don’t see it here.
January 14, 2022 at 12:27 am
katemccarrollmoore
I love everything about this post. Sassy 11 year old protagonists, messages waiting for the right moment to be (re)discovered, Anne Lamott, hope. All the right ingredients to inspire! Thank you.
January 14, 2022 at 12:39 am
erinragankelly
I always keep the fortunes that speak to me…maybe I need to revisit them?
January 14, 2022 at 12:43 am
Ashley Sierra (@AshleySierra06)
What a fascinating way to come up with ideas. I haven’t had a fortune cookie since before the pandemic.
January 14, 2022 at 12:52 am
Chayala Nachum
I have to try the Bird by Bird book. Thanks Melissa, loved this post!
January 14, 2022 at 12:54 am
Liesl Couperthwaite
It seems that inspiration comes from everywhere. That should have been called a Fortunately Cookie. Fortunately it really worked
January 14, 2022 at 12:59 am
cbcole
I’ve kept a fortune from a meal pre – covid. It states: “Soon you’ll be sitting on top of the world.” It inspires me to keep writing and subbing.
January 14, 2022 at 1:10 am
Sophie Furman✨Illustrator (@SophieFurmanArt)
I love fortune cookies and remember there was a company or a story about a company that prints cute-funny ones. Congratulations on your book and story, and thank you for the inspiration!! 🙂
January 14, 2022 at 1:18 am
JEN Garrett
Ideas do come from the oddest places, don’t they? Today my Storystorm idea was crossing the street – and no, it wasn’t a chicken!
January 14, 2022 at 1:51 am
Kathryn Powell
Okay. I’m now going to save the fortunes in an idea jar! Thanks and congratulations on your success.
January 14, 2022 at 2:12 am
Jeannette Suhr
Thank you, Melissa, for sharing your journey. I look forward to reading your books and reviewing Anne Lamott’s book. I have some fortune cookies at home that I’d better open soon and hope for inspiration.
Happy New Year and I wish you the best for continued writing success!
January 14, 2022 at 2:14 am
Jeannette Suhr
Thank you, Melissa, for sharing your journey. I look forward to reading your books and also reviewing Anne Lamott’s book. I have some fortune cookies at home that I had better open soon and hope for some added inspiration.
Happy New Year and best wishes for continued writing success!
January 14, 2022 at 3:02 am
Marzieh Abbas
I love Anne Lamott’s book! What great ideas for getting started!
January 14, 2022 at 3:06 am
wyszguy
What a great story – thanks so much for sharing!
January 14, 2022 at 3:34 am
sharonkdal
I’ve been putting off reading Bird by Bird also. Better get to it! Your post was just the encouragement I needed. Thank you!
January 14, 2022 at 3:40 am
linafeli
Thank you! Bird by bird – or fortune cookie by fortune cookie – just take it one at a time to see where life takes you!
January 14, 2022 at 3:47 am
Krissy
Great post. Thanks!
January 14, 2022 at 5:32 am
Tanya Konerman
Fortune Cookies and I go way back…one is how I met my husband of almost 30 years now! It, too, helped me get over a fear. Think I’m going to get some take-out tonight and see what inspiration awaits!
January 14, 2022 at 5:44 am
Colleen Dabney
Today I will look for inspiration in rando places!
January 14, 2022 at 6:16 am
mbhmaine
Bird by Bird is one of my favorites and I haven’t read it in years. It might be time to revisit. Thanks for sharing your journey and the reminder that inspiration is there if you keep your eyes open and “are willing to do the work.”
January 14, 2022 at 6:16 am
Mary E. Cronin
Melissa, thanks for talking about the hard times as well as the good! I appreciate your honesty.
January 14, 2022 at 6:58 am
Beth Elliott
This was a heartfelt, hope-filled post. Reading it was a great way to start my day. Thank you, Melissa!
January 14, 2022 at 7:28 am
Jennifer Vose
Thanks so much for this, Melissa! I’ve written an MG novel also inspired by a fortune cookie – so I’d agree that they can spark lots of ideas! Congratulations to you on the first book, and good luck with all the rest!
January 14, 2022 at 7:59 am
readmybook2002
Whoever thought a fortune cookie line would make a good book influence. I have to eat more of those folded cookies to see the writing wisdom wishes.
January 14, 2022 at 8:06 am
nycbgriffin
I very much appreciate your vulnerability here. And I’ll always look twice at a fortune cookie from now on!
January 14, 2022 at 8:21 am
annier1996
Thank you for the inspiration, Melissa!
January 14, 2022 at 8:23 am
Meghan Downs
Thank you for your honesty! Just ordered the Anne Lamott book.
January 14, 2022 at 8:39 am
Tamara Rittershaus
I never read horoscopes but this inspired me to look mine up today. “You’ll be in your best form.” I think that could inspire a story!
January 14, 2022 at 8:43 am
ramonapersaudwrites
Echo chamber here…definitely needed the words of encouragement. Ideas abound but it’s the sitting and digging deeper that is hard. Especially in our skim and scan nature. Now to build my bridge from idea to draft to finish.
January 14, 2022 at 8:44 am
Erica Jensen Shiflet
I’ll never read a fortune cookie the same way–thanks for the fun tip! And I’m glad you came around on Bird by Bird . . .
January 14, 2022 at 9:06 am
Freda Lewkowicz
A judgy-wudgy voice? This is terrific! And combined with fortunes cookies and mitzvah stories, I know that today’s going to be a very good day!
January 14, 2022 at 9:09 am
Heidi Chupp
Such a great reminder. Thank you!
January 14, 2022 at 9:10 am
Catherine Friess
I bought a box of fortune cookies this week. It didn’t occur to me that I could use them for writing inspiration! Thanks Melissa :o)
January 14, 2022 at 9:10 am
Jennifer Kennedy
Thank you so much, Melissa, for these important reminders, especially when the pandemic has impacted us all differently but profoundly. Maybe it’s time for me to turn to a fortune cookie and Bird by Bird both
January 14, 2022 at 9:16 am
Jennifer Phillips
Such helpful words of encouragement. When I am having those darker “you suck” thoughts, I try to remember that I am not alone in going through these moments and that there are ways to get out of the funk. Thank you for sharing and congratulations on your stories!
January 14, 2022 at 9:24 am
Jamie Bills
I really needed to hear this! Working towards publishing is no joke. I am so happy you are back in your groove. Best wishes.
January 14, 2022 at 9:38 am
Linda Hofke
This post comes at the perfect time for me. I am blocked. Thanks for the reminder about Bird by Bird. I will pull out my copy.
And congrats on your books! Thanks for sharing how they came about.
January 14, 2022 at 9:52 am
ptnozell
Thanks for the inspiring post and congratulations on your upcoming releases! I think it’s time for me to reread Bird by Bird.
January 14, 2022 at 9:53 am
Megan Whitaker
Such sage advice for those of us struggling to put words onto paper these days! I’m having Chinese tonight!
January 14, 2022 at 9:55 am
Maria
Thank you for sharing your experiences, I will be checking out Anne Lamott’s “Bird by Bird” for inspiration too! 🙂
January 14, 2022 at 9:58 am
cinzialverde
Thanks for your lessons! You made me laugh – and your thoughts are so relatable. Congrats on your upcoming releases!
January 14, 2022 at 9:59 am
Charles Richardson
Thanks for the encouragement.
January 14, 2022 at 9:59 am
CB Jarapa
One hit wonders are still hits 🙂
January 14, 2022 at 10:27 am
carolinecvc
Love the story of the inspiration for your first nove! You inspired me to look up fortune cookies and I found a fortune cookie fortune generator online. Am sharing here, let the inspiration begin! http://hkessner.com/wats1020-dom-basics/
January 14, 2022 at 10:28 am
georgeandjohanna
It it like you read my mind with this post. Exactly what I needed to hear fortune cookie and all. thank you!
Johanna Peyton
January 14, 2022 at 10:45 am
Angela De Groot
Thanks for sharing your story and journey. Bird by Bird is a terrific book. When I hit a really low spot some years back, I found Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way really helpful in chucking off writer’s block (if that’s what it was) and rebuilding my confidence.
January 14, 2022 at 11:10 am
Donna Rossman
This was just what I needed to hear. Thanks for sharing your story, Melissa.
January 14, 2022 at 11:16 am
Lynne Marie
Thanks for the inspiration and the generous prizes!
January 14, 2022 at 11:21 am
Beverly Smith
Thank you Melissa. That fog that clouds your brain when you feel like your stash of creativity has been used up is familiar and Bird by Bird speaks volumes to that with humor. Your words spark hope. Thanks for sharing!
January 14, 2022 at 11:26 am
Darcee Freier
It’s amazing how an idea can stick around until finally it grows into a story. Thanks for your story of the story.
January 14, 2022 at 11:30 am
Rita Antoinette Borg
I got an ide about two story storms away and it is developing. One day it will be in full bloom.
January 14, 2022 at 11:40 am
andreesantini
Thanks for your encouraging post!
January 14, 2022 at 12:09 pm
Abby Wooldridge
I loved your post, Melissa! Thank you so much for sharing, and congratulations on your books!
January 14, 2022 at 12:16 pm
Ashley Bankhead
Thanks for the post! I liked the behind the story of learning that you got your idea from a fortune cookie!
January 14, 2022 at 12:21 pm
Rebecca Van Slyke
Time to go back to Bird by Bird.
Or to have Chinese food for lunch.
January 14, 2022 at 12:27 pm
Angela H. Dale
Love the idea of getting stories from found text. Will give it a try, thanks.
January 14, 2022 at 12:33 pm
Tanja Bauerle
Oh, my! I can relate. “I suck” is a constant refrain in my inner dialog. It is somewhat reassuring that this is part of what other creators experience. Great post. Thank you. T
January 14, 2022 at 12:35 pm
Bethany Walker (@bookshelfofbeth)
Always good to know “imposter syndrome” hits us all. Now time for a fortune cookie.
January 14, 2022 at 12:37 pm
Sarah Meade
Thank you for this post and your words of wisdom.
January 14, 2022 at 12:46 pm
Claudia Sloan
That’s a great fortune cookie story! …and thanks for the book resource, I’ll check it out 🙂
January 14, 2022 at 12:47 pm
Monica Acker
Thank you for this inspiring post!
January 14, 2022 at 12:57 pm
trunkythetree
We must all learn to squash our judgy-wudgy voices and not let them stop us from achieving our dreams
January 14, 2022 at 12:58 pm
Elizabeth Westra
I guess it’s time for a trip to my favorite Chinese restaurant. I have to get that fortune cookie! Most of them don’t say much to me. If that’s still the case I’ll just have to dig out my cooy of Anne Lamott’s book. I hate it but, for some reason, haven’t read it. Once I fiind it again I’m going to find out what she has to say. Who would have thought a great book idea came from a fortune cookie? Love it! Great post! .
January 14, 2022 at 1:06 pm
betlw
I hit the wrong key in my post about this idea. Instead of writing *I have it but*… I wrote *I hate** it.*.. Sorry, but what a difference one letter can make.
Elizabeth Westra elizabethwestra@gmail.com
On Thu, Jan 13, 2022 at 11:45 AM Writing for Kids (While Raising Them) wrote:
> Tara Lazar posted: “by Melissa Roske Inspiration is weird. It comes at the > strangest times, in the strangest places. The inspiration for my > middle-grade novel, KAT GREENE COMES CLEAN, came stuffed inside a fortune > cookie. Here’s what it said: A winsome smile is your su” >
January 14, 2022 at 1:20 pm
DaNeil Olson
I love this post! Inspiring with a side of cookies.
January 14, 2022 at 1:20 pm
Elizabeth W Saba
Thank you, Melissa! I too have Bird by Bird and resisted:).
January 14, 2022 at 1:24 pm
Deborah Ishii
I knew there was a reason that I’ve been collecting fortune cookies!!!! Now I’ll have to crack some open and see where my fortunes take me! Thanks for the unique idea! Maybe I’ll make a pot of green tea to accompany my cookies!
January 14, 2022 at 1:33 pm
arndt4writing
Great post! Thanks so much!
January 14, 2022 at 1:53 pm
Cassie Bentley
I started paying attention to the tags on my tea bags. Today’s note: “Be the honey in someone’s tea.” Ideas can come from anywhere. Thank you Tara and Melissa.
January 14, 2022 at 2:22 pm
Janna MacLean
WOW, Very cool Blog. Thanks for that!
January 14, 2022 at 2:49 pm
chaunceyelephant
Its so easy to get discouraged – thanks for your story and your advice!
January 14, 2022 at 3:01 pm
Laurie Seaford
Congratulations of Grandma Merle! I had a favorite Grampa Merle (person). Now, I want to buy BIRD BY BIRD.
January 14, 2022 at 3:10 pm
Rebecca Gardyn Levington
Thanks for keeping it real! I have felt like Milli Vanilli more than once in my life as well (for various reasons I won’t get into. lol). Thanks also for reminding me about Bird By Bird. I read it years ago but think it may be worth getting out again. I could use a kick in the pants!
January 14, 2022 at 3:10 pm
kdgwrites
Congratulations on your second book. Time to get a fortune cookie and start reading Bird by Bird! Loved your encouraging words.
January 14, 2022 at 3:16 pm
Shar
Your post really resonated with me with getting stuck in the fear. I have Bird by Bird sitting on my shelf unread. I need to crack it open. thank you! And congratulations on both your books!
January 14, 2022 at 3:22 pm
dedra davis
Very inspiring, and now I need Chinese food and a fortune cookie!
January 14, 2022 at 4:11 pm
Cassy P
Loved this and love the sound of Kat! I’m attempting my first MG at the moment and have been rereading Bird By Bird. Such a classic 🦅 🐦
January 14, 2022 at 4:21 pm
Latasha
It’s funny how things come full circle. You didn’t know it then, but the fortune cookie resurfaced and voila! Love this! Thanks for the inspiration.
January 14, 2022 at 4:51 pm
amyrsinn
Love the fortune cookie idea! Thanks.
January 14, 2022 at 4:58 pm
Joannie Duris
Fun post, Melissa. Congrats on your writing successes. I had a small collection of cookie fortunes nearby while I was reading your post. I jotted down a couple for inspiration–one involved planting seeds, and another involved rubber bands. Who knows where THAT one will take me.
January 14, 2022 at 5:24 pm
Marlena Leach
There is a crowded boat of writers who have self-doubt and fear. It’s good to hear about the ones who push through it. It encourages me to press on until my turn comes up, then do it again! Thanks for a wonderful story of your journery in writing.
January 14, 2022 at 5:48 pm
Finding Damo
Ordered bird by bird on your recommendation so fingers crossed!
January 14, 2022 at 6:16 pm
Mary Nelson
I love fortune cookies! Panda Express, here I come.
January 14, 2022 at 6:21 pm
Micki Ginsberg
I loved your story!
January 14, 2022 at 7:06 pm
nicolesalterbraun
Looks like a great book. thanks!
January 14, 2022 at 7:19 pm
Kimberly Wilson
I will never look at a fortune cookie the same way––love this! Thanks, Melissa!
January 14, 2022 at 7:35 pm
yangmommy
I completely empathize with the Milli Vanilli feeling! Thank goodness we both enjoy fortune cookies 😉
January 14, 2022 at 7:53 pm
Jessica Fries-Gaither
“The kidlit equivalent of Milli Vanilli.”
I actually snorted at this! Thanks for the laugh.
Inspiration comes from the most interesting places, doesn’t it?
January 14, 2022 at 8:14 pm
pecrosby
Inspiring words for sure by Melissa! Thank you for the Anne Lamott reference. I am fairly new to this writing journey, very excited about it. Any advise and insight from those who are farther along on this path is much appreciated!
January 14, 2022 at 8:35 pm
Jeannette Suhr
Thank you, Melissa, for sharing your writing journey and Anne Lamott’s book. I will be sure to review it. I look forward to reading your books and I think it’s time to open those stale fortune cookies in my pantry and post them in my StoryStorm notebook. Who knows where they may lead me.
Happy New Year and I wish you continued success with writing.
January 14, 2022 at 8:51 pm
Soul Healer 11.11
Great read!! Thank fully your not the kidlit equivalent of Milli Vanilli!
Lol!!! (SO SO SO FUNNY!!!)
Your a golden fortune cookie of kidlit advice!!
Super!!
January 14, 2022 at 9:08 pm
René Bartos
Inspiring! Thanks. Time for a fortune cookie.
January 14, 2022 at 9:27 pm
donnacangelosi
Such a relatable and inspiring post! Just what I needed today. And thanks for the fortune cookie idea! Congrats on you book!
January 14, 2022 at 9:30 pm
geigerlin
That little cookie brought a wonderful fortune… Kat Greene Comes Clean.
January 14, 2022 at 9:41 pm
Phaea Crede - Jet the Cat (Is Not a Cat) author (@PhaeaCrede)
Great story!
January 14, 2022 at 9:46 pm
Michelle Kashinsky
Very cool, time for more fortune cookies! Thanks!
January 14, 2022 at 10:10 pm
S. K. Wenger
How awesome! Now I’m going to buy some fortune cookies! Or at least hold fast to the little things that strike a connection to me. Thank you for the reminder that sometimes it’s the little things like finding a quote, or taking time to write a character into life are what’s important.
January 14, 2022 at 10:25 pm
Shannon Fossett
Thanks for sharing! It’s nice to know published authors still struggle with writing confidence. I’m a big fortune fan and I’ve kept several of them!!
January 14, 2022 at 10:38 pm
Helen Lys
Thanks for the post! I will check out the book you suggested.
January 14, 2022 at 10:52 pm
Bonnie Kelso
Haha! This was great! I love the fortune cookie method. Thanks, Melissa!
January 14, 2022 at 11:52 pm
Annie Lynn/AnnieBirdd Music, LLC
This was great Melissa. I really enjoyed your honesty and humor. Thanks & stay well. ✌🏼💖🎶🎨📚🌻
January 15, 2022 at 12:13 am
Pauline Cleary
Melissa, you have inspired me. I’m going back to revise a novel! Thank you!!
January 15, 2022 at 12:30 am
Julie Durr
Bird by Bird sounds like a great resource. Thank you!
January 15, 2022 at 2:16 am
Marlene Wurfel
“You are very talented in many ways.” 🙂 Thanks for the inspo. “Bird by bird” is the best advice ever.
January 15, 2022 at 2:48 am
hfr2006
Off to google a digital fortune cookie website! Should be fun!
January 15, 2022 at 8:31 am
mimisheawrites
So encouraging!
January 15, 2022 at 9:15 am
angkunkel
Thanks for this post, Melissa! “middle grade Milli Vanilli” made me laugh out loud.
January 15, 2022 at 9:19 am
bgonsar
Glad you got through the writers block!
January 15, 2022 at 9:52 am
Kelly Vavala
I really appreciate your honesty and expressing how we all feel at times. The broken selves, beat up and the one hit wonder part. At least you had that! I’m thankful you gained your confidence back in that wonderful book and went on and broke through! Thank you for the great advice…Keep going!
January 15, 2022 at 10:13 am
jilltatara
Feel so fortunate to have read your post. Thank you!
January 15, 2022 at 10:34 am
JaNayBW
“too Californian”–ouch (from this born and raised California girl).
Thanks for the reminder of reaching for a Fortune cookie. It’s a double whammy: inspiration plus a low cal snack.
January 15, 2022 at 11:38 am
Teresa Daffern
Thanks Melissa. I appreciate you sharing how you worked through the struggle to write.
January 15, 2022 at 11:40 am
heathercmorris
This was an encouraging post! Such a great reminder that this writing journey is not smooth and definitely not easy!
January 15, 2022 at 12:00 pm
jimchaize1
Yeah, I got the pandemic writing blues too, but I seem to be coming out of it. Thanks for sharing about your writing journey, Melissa.
January 15, 2022 at 12:02 pm
amomnextdoor
I LOVE “judge-wudgy.” Reduces the inner critic to its proper state!
January 15, 2022 at 1:31 pm
claireannette1
I love this post. I actually have a jar filled with fortune cookies. I recently got one saying “Curiosity kills boredom. Nothing can kill curiosity.” There must be a story in that one.
January 15, 2022 at 2:11 pm
Nancy Rubin Fahmy
I love the honesty in this post because getting stuck or tuning out the negative noise can be a huge part of the process. Moreso, there needs to be more good literature which shows diversity and culture across age groups! I will never look at fortune cookies the same ! Thank you!
January 15, 2022 at 2:28 pm
Kirsten Leestma
Thank you! Revisiting those fortunes I have stuck to the fridge,
January 15, 2022 at 2:38 pm
Molly Ippolito
I love that you found inspiration in the small things! Ironically enough, DOVE chocolates always seem to give me a smile. Perhaps next time I eat one I’ll stumble upon a story idea?!
January 15, 2022 at 2:59 pm
Joy Pitcairn
Thanks for sharing. I really appreciate your honesty and willingness to share about the “ruts” of your writing journey.
January 15, 2022 at 3:04 pm
Naz Ford
It is a great reminder of the cycles of creating and a great reminder that writing can be joyous!
January 15, 2022 at 4:01 pm
Julie Reich
Thank you for the honest post.
January 15, 2022 at 4:26 pm
Eva NMN Felder
Such inspiring words , Melissa. I keep all my fortune cookies messages and not only listen to the words but also to the numbers, hoping to hit the lottery someday and help all my family.
Good luck with 13 B’nai Mitzvah Stories. I often wonder what theme would be a good idea for PB, after I heard an editor say that most manuscripts submitted to her, about Jewish Culture, were about food.
January 15, 2022 at 4:37 pm
debbiemoeller
i get inspiration similar to the way you do. One big idea with snippets of plot and dialogue. I also have long dry spells. I love that you used the word immobilized. That hit the nail on the head. I wanted to write-I just couldn’t. I would sit to write…and nothing. Thank you for the inspirational post.
January 15, 2022 at 5:17 pm
M.R. Street
Thank you for affirming that we can climb out of dark places into the light!
January 15, 2022 at 5:20 pm
Janet Johnson
Love that you pushed past eh “you suck” voice! Because you definitely don’t. Congratulations on the story!! Can’t wIt to see what you write next. 😊
January 15, 2022 at 6:13 pm
Tootie Nienow
I love your persistence!
January 15, 2022 at 6:26 pm
Debbie Meneses
Melissa, Glad to learn that you did not give up. Congratulations on your second book being published. Many of us are identifying with your struggle. It is encouraging to keep on moving forward, even if we have days of “sucky” writing.
January 15, 2022 at 7:10 pm
Judy Bryan
Great inspiration! Thank you for sharing your struggles and how you persevered. May your good fortune continue!!
January 15, 2022 at 7:10 pm
allyenz
Here’s to learning to tune out the JUDGY WUDGY VOICES!!!!!!!
Thank you for sharing, it helps so much to hear about the struggles along with the successes! I have heard SO many writers say that writing the second book is a bugger, esp. after a well received first one! I think it’s the norm.
January 15, 2022 at 7:33 pm
Janet Halfmann
I’m a sucker for fortune cookies. Hopefully I’ll find a story in one, too!
January 15, 2022 at 8:27 pm
kbottagaro
Ah, that judgy-wudgy voice lurks in my brain. I love the kernel of hope in your post – so important to maintain hope!
January 15, 2022 at 9:01 pm
writersideup
Melissa, I’m not a “New Age”-type person either, but I did buy BIRD BY BIRD years ago and have yet to read it! Great post! 😀
January 15, 2022 at 9:09 pm
https://katiewalsh.blog/
Thank you for your encouraging words. I can! 🙂
January 15, 2022 at 9:22 pm
cathystenquist
A few hours before I got engaged, I was having Chinese food with my family. My fortune cookie said, “Remember- A fake diamond is better than no diamond at all.” Inspirational words are found everywhere… many with a grain of truth 😉
January 15, 2022 at 9:50 pm
debbiearnn
I love how book ideas can come from anywhere! 🙂
January 15, 2022 at 10:54 pm
michelerietz
Thank you for your post! I don’t put a lot of stock in fortunes but I have gotten one or two that suit my situation in a crazy way. And I read Bird by Bird. Must read it again!
Congratulations on your middle grade novel.
January 15, 2022 at 11:04 pm
gayleenrabakukk
Thanks for sharing your insight! I also hoard fortune cookie messages in my desk – maybe I’ll sort through them the next time I’m stuck 🙂
January 15, 2022 at 11:24 pm
Zoraida Rivera
Your inspiration brought a smile. It comes from the strangest places!
January 15, 2022 at 11:44 pm
Mindy Alyse Weiss
What an amazing way to come up with the character for your first MG, Melissa. I hope at least one of your Storystorm ideas demands to become a story, too.
January 16, 2022 at 12:35 am
kmajor2013
Funny you should mention fortune cookies as I placed a tiny slip in my wallet that read “This weekend will bring you a surprise”. Hoping it’s good if it comes to be. Thanks for sharing your story!
January 16, 2022 at 2:05 am
bonnie fireUrchin ~ pb illustration & writing
The best part of using your fortune cookie message to brainstorm a story – aside from being luck to get it published] is no more thinking these messages are a waste of time. Even if some are bad ideas, it’s a fun puzzle to find how it could be linked to a good one.
January 16, 2022 at 4:50 am
eleanorannpeterson
I can relate to ‘fear and self-loathing. COVID hasn’t helped much either. I’ll purchase Bird by Bird to get back on track. Thanks!
January 16, 2022 at 5:47 am
cravevsworld
Nice to see MG featured. Thank you!
January 16, 2022 at 9:43 am
Penny Schneider
This was very inspiring. I write children’s graphic novels mostly, but it really made me think about stories of my middle grade years… hmmmm could definitely be book! Also a fellow New Yorker!
January 16, 2022 at 9:50 am
Susan Lorene
Bird by Bird is on my reading list.
January 16, 2022 at 12:18 pm
Debbi G
Thank you for your inspiring and encouraging post.
January 16, 2022 at 12:51 pm
Dawn Prochovnic
Thank you for the reminder that good ideas (like good fortunes) can be found just about anywhere … but you have to do your part as the writer to bring these ideas to life.
January 16, 2022 at 12:52 pm
Susan Schade
Thank you for the encouragement. It is a hard time for many to stay positive, productive and hopeful.
January 16, 2022 at 12:53 pm
Jan Milusich
Thank you for sharing.
January 16, 2022 at 1:02 pm
Joan Swanson
Thank you so much for putting yourself out there to let us know we are not alone in the, you have no business calling yourself a writer. I’m going to keep on taking it day by day and just writing. Eventually, I will have my book edited and then with fingers crossed, seek an agent. Again, thank you!
January 16, 2022 at 1:34 pm
Michelle Losardo
Thank you, Melissa. BIRD BY BIRD has been on my ‘to read’ list for years. Always smart to have inspiration around for when ideas or confidence dry up!
January 16, 2022 at 1:36 pm
Deborah Foster
I love getting fortune cookies! Thank you for the idea. I’ll have to check out BIRD BY BIRD. I had never heard of it until today.
January 16, 2022 at 1:43 pm
Thelia Hutchinson
Congratulations on your hard work.
January 16, 2022 at 2:38 pm
mwolpin
Thank you for this post, Melissa. Yes, inspiration and ideas come from the darndest places. Sometimes I think they don’t even come from me. @MNW51
January 16, 2022 at 2:44 pm
Dea Brayden
Great, great advice: “learn to tune out the judgy-wudgy voice inside your head.”
January 16, 2022 at 4:43 pm
Janet AlJunaidi
Thank you Melissa. I feel so fortunate 🙂 to have read this post! (Sorry!)
January 16, 2022 at 4:48 pm
Carolyn Kraft
I love this, a whole book inspired by a fortune cookie! I’m off to find some.
January 16, 2022 at 4:57 pm
chrisynthia
Thanks for the reminder that I am not alone with the internal negative talk. Thanks for your post.
January 16, 2022 at 5:34 pm
Jocelyn Rish
I bought BIRD BY BIRD years ago because I thought I was supposed to read it, but I never actually gave it a go. Now I think I’ll finally read it!
January 16, 2022 at 6:52 pm
Susan Cabael
It has been over a decade since I’ve read BIRD BY BIRD, but your post made me want to re-read it again.
January 16, 2022 at 7:08 pm
Stephanie Wildman
congrats on coming through to the other side of this one – I’m working on a bat mitzvah story as we speak & put it aside to catch up on storystorm. thanks for the inspiration.
January 16, 2022 at 7:31 pm
Jane Baskwill
It’s amazing what can come from a fortune cookie. Thanks for sharing Melissa. BTW BIRD BY BIRD is a favorite – great choice.
January 16, 2022 at 9:55 pm
Kellie
Straight after reading this post, I googled ‘fortune cookie fortunes’ … KA-CHING! Love it.
January 16, 2022 at 10:17 pm
storycatcherpublishing
You never know what might trigger inspiration. When I’m in a sketching mood, I look through Pinterest and will sometimes not only get ideas for my next sketch, but also for my next picture book idea…;-)
Great post!
Donna L Martin
January 16, 2022 at 11:30 pm
Shan O’Shea
I keep a published book of quotes, and a book of quotes of my own compiling, which can provide me with inspiration. I also try to go easy on myself when nothing is coming to me. I tell myself I’m digesting ideas.
January 17, 2022 at 12:00 am
Kristy Nuttall
I’m a huge fortune cookie fan. Thanks so much for sharing this inspiring post!
January 17, 2022 at 12:21 am
libbydemmon
I’ve been putting off Bird by Bird too… AND I’ve also been stuck. Maybe it’s time.
January 17, 2022 at 1:30 am
Angela Turner
Thank you for sharing your story
January 17, 2022 at 3:33 am
Acamy Schleikorn
I’m so glad that you found your inspiration again. Thanks for sharing your story!
January 17, 2022 at 6:25 am
Hanna Geshelin
It’s funny about Bird by Bird: seems like a lot of people heard about out but found reasons not to open it. I was put off by the title, but the book is terrific! I think it’s one good example of “when the student is ready the teacher will appear.”
January 17, 2022 at 9:28 am
Carolyn Cory Scoppettone
Thanks for that. Needed the reminder. Now where did I put my copy of Bird by Bird? I might need a fortune cookie to find it.
January 17, 2022 at 11:54 am
littleredstoryshed
I think I should eat more fortune cookies! 🙂
January 17, 2022 at 1:03 pm
Joanne Roberts
I keep a jar of fortunes handy at all times (and a few cookies too.) thanks and congratulations
January 17, 2022 at 2:09 pm
Jess Freeman
What a fortunate fortune cookie!
January 17, 2022 at 3:02 pm
kidlitgail
What a unique way to find a story idea!
January 17, 2022 at 3:12 pm
Mary.beningo
I think I may need to get that book. Thank you for the advice and encouragement that “we can!”
January 17, 2022 at 4:28 pm
topangamaria
I think my version of fortune cookie messages are horoscopes, perhaps.
Open ended wondering, fun to think on.
January 17, 2022 at 4:33 pm
Sue (Susan Uhlig) (she/her) (@susanuhlig)
Thanks for sharing honestly.
January 17, 2022 at 5:24 pm
Anne Appert
I love this post so much! I actually have been keeping fortunes I enjoy in a little notebook in hopes that one will inspire a book someday. Thank you for the reminder to revisit it once and awhile. I also love BIRD BY BIRD and think it may be time for a reread. Thank you for your post!
January 17, 2022 at 5:28 pm
deniseaengle
Oh—this was good! Really good! Thank you!
January 17, 2022 at 6:03 pm
Joyce Schriebman
That’s the way the cookies…oh, I guess you know that. Love the return to Bird by Bird. Yes. Sigh…
January 17, 2022 at 6:49 pm
Charlene Avery
I can’t wait for the anthology to come out, I’m happy to share that on my social media! Best wishes and thank you!
January 17, 2022 at 7:09 pm
Kelly Perkins
I have found inspiration from fortune cookies (and well, just by eating cookies.. I get into a happy place)- but agreed, a word, an image, something you see at the grocery store, can inspire! Thanks for this :o)
January 17, 2022 at 8:56 pm
Alexis_Bookdragon
Thank you for your openness and vulnerability here. 💜💜💜
January 18, 2022 at 6:01 am
Leila Boukarim
So inspiring. I have three fortunes taped up as good reminders and I will definitely have a fortune cookie today after lunch! Thank you for this.
January 18, 2022 at 9:40 am
joanapastro
Love your fortune cookie idea! Glad you found inspiration again. Thanks for sharing!
January 18, 2022 at 10:03 am
susaninez0905
Fortune cookies definitely can give inspiration. I have saved one or two myself because they managed to hit the right note. Thanks for the words of inspiration and the reminder to crack open a cookie!
January 18, 2022 at 10:44 am
Allison Strick (she/her) (@byallisonstrick)
OK, I need to start saving the fortunes from now on!
January 18, 2022 at 11:51 am
Mary A Zychowicz
Thanks for your pep talk! I need to revisit Bird by Bird. I’m so happy for you that you kicked your self-loathing to the curb. Love your fortune cookie inspiration. This was a great inspiration.
January 18, 2022 at 12:23 pm
Maria B.
“I was a one-hit wonder, I decided. The kidlit equivalent of Milli Vanilli.” This made me LOL so hard. Thanks for making my day.
January 18, 2022 at 12:52 pm
Louann Brown
Great post! I keep encouraging “fortunes” in my wallet. Love that one lead you to your first book. Bird by Bird is a book I open and review several times a year. Best of Luck to you in the future!
January 18, 2022 at 1:11 pm
Shelly Hawley-Yan
Thank you – great words of encouragement 💗
January 18, 2022 at 4:02 pm
lorisherritt
I too hold on to old fortunes; well at least the less ominous or boring ones. Thanks for reminding me that inspiration can be found in unexpected places, including junk drawers, and can emerge even in the darkest of times. I appreciate your notes of hope, they make me feel like I am part of a league of writers, and that struggling with the question, ‘am I good enough?’ is a common part of our conversations with ourselves.
January 18, 2022 at 4:29 pm
Christine Pinto
Thanks for the best inspiration I’ve read today. I love You are almost there!
How often we need this reminder that our success just might be right around the corner. Thanks!
January 18, 2022 at 7:42 pm
Kassy Keppol
Such a fun way to find inspiration.
January 18, 2022 at 7:51 pm
kathydoherty1
Thanks for the encouragement! I’ll never look at a fortune cookie slip the same way again.
January 18, 2022 at 10:37 pm
Brinton Culp
Perfect cookie inspiration! And thank you for the encouragement!
January 19, 2022 at 12:08 am
Liz Godfrey
Thanks for the encouragement to get through those sloggy days, particularly in COVID times when motivation is lagging.
January 19, 2022 at 1:23 am
Judith Snyder
I have a whole pile of fortune cookies that I have been saving. I think I’ll start there. Thanks.
January 19, 2022 at 3:49 am
Lisa Kingsford
Haha… you used up all your good ideas in your first book. Thanks for the laugh – it helps me see how silly some of the thoughts that float in my head really are.
January 19, 2022 at 8:01 am
Audrey Perrott
Now if only my fortune cookies would pop out a first draft! 🙂
January 19, 2022 at 8:16 am
hansenjc13
so interesting how Kat Greene came together. I bought LaMott’s book for my MIL, but now I want it for myself. 🙂
January 19, 2022 at 8:47 am
reluctantspy
Thanks for sharing. How did you get the agent and publishing contract?
January 19, 2022 at 10:18 am
JC
Thanks for your very real post!
January 19, 2022 at 11:43 am
Bettie Boswell
What a good fortune. I’m glad you were not a one hit wonder.
January 19, 2022 at 1:24 pm
Jolie Stekly
Makes me want to reread Bird by Bird…it’s been a long time.
January 19, 2022 at 1:36 pm
Christina Shawn
Thank you for the heart felt, honest, advice. The ups and downs of being a writer sure can be hard to navigate!
January 19, 2022 at 2:15 pm
Jane Dippold (@janedippold)
Thank you for the great advice to keep working, searching for ideas and to not lose heart! Thank you!
January 19, 2022 at 4:45 pm
Tammi Beck
Thank you for the encouragement! (And your time). Best
January 19, 2022 at 5:44 pm
streetlynn
Great stories of inspiration!
January 19, 2022 at 7:10 pm
Janet Frenck Sheets
I think you’ve provided me with an excuse to go out for Chinese food soon. Fortune cookies are fun, and if they spark a story, even better!
January 19, 2022 at 11:26 pm
Huyen
What an inspiring story! Often we imaging everyone creating effortlessly but it’s often not like that and the struggle is real. I love those fortune cookie fortunes. Thanks for sharing and congrats!
January 19, 2022 at 11:37 pm
Yaa
Thank you for sharing your writing journey of Kat Comes Clean.
January 20, 2022 at 12:36 am
Charlotte Glaze
Thanks for sharing.
January 20, 2022 at 2:46 am
Megan McNamara
I haven’t read Bird by Bird, but this is the second time it’s been mentioned to me. I think I’ll see if it’s at my local library!
January 20, 2022 at 10:56 am
Lauri Meyers
Thank you for sharing your “after/ before” period where writers sometimes wander.
January 20, 2022 at 2:09 pm
writeknit
Judgy wudgy is my theme song – and I better stop singing it and get writing. Thanks for the great post today.
January 20, 2022 at 2:40 pm
Matt Tesoriero
Self doubt. Self help. The Plot thickens!
January 20, 2022 at 3:22 pm
Stephanie D Jones
Yes – what I needed to see, read, hear today. Thank you!
January 20, 2022 at 8:08 pm
Caren Cantrell
Getting unstuck is often the hardest part of writing, particularly when your little voice keeps yakking in your ear.
January 20, 2022 at 8:56 pm
Kelly Rice Schmitt
A new use for those fortunes!!! Thank you for your insight on ideas.
January 21, 2022 at 5:16 am
sharongiltrow
Thank you Melissa for sharing your story and reminding me that I want to read Bird by Bird 🙂
January 21, 2022 at 1:36 pm
jennyb_writes
Very inspiring post, Melissa. I’ve been looking for a new craft book, and Annie Lamott’s book sounds like just what I need. I can’t wait to check out your books as well!
January 21, 2022 at 2:27 pm
Meena
Finding your fortune in those tiny cookie messages! Thank you for this wonderful idea.
January 22, 2022 at 8:06 am
🇵🇪 Sara Fajardo 🇺🇸 (@safajarwrites)
Wonderful post. We’ve all had those dark moments. Love how a fortune cookie message can be a vehicle to restore sense of purpose. Thanks!
January 22, 2022 at 10:55 am
Sharon Pegram
Thank you for sharing your journey!
January 22, 2022 at 11:59 am
Christine Fleming McIsaac
Thanks for sharing your story! Very inspiring.
January 22, 2022 at 9:33 pm
Kris H.
Thank you for your comments!
January 22, 2022 at 9:36 pm
Kris H
Thank you for your comments.
January 23, 2022 at 12:39 am
syorkeviney
I love Bird by Bird… I’ve marked it up folded pages… looked back again and again… then put it on the shelf…. time for another visit with this old friend!
January 23, 2022 at 10:04 am
Susanne Whitehouse
I printed out the fortune from your post for inspiration. 🙂 Thank you, Melissa!
January 23, 2022 at 11:56 am
KATHY Z.PRICE
I loved this entry SO MUCH. Inspiring. I like in a small village where we do not have -fortune cookies–but I know what I can use instead! Thank you and the anthology sounds breath-taking
January 23, 2022 at 11:17 pm
Dani Duck
I have got to go buy a whole bag of fortune cookies now!
January 24, 2022 at 12:03 pm
Jen Walsh
Thank you for sharing your journey and your dark spot. It is encouraging.
January 24, 2022 at 4:15 pm
Abraham Schroeder
Thank you!
January 25, 2022 at 7:59 am
Lucky Jo Boscarino
A WINSOME SMILE is a lovely phrase, I’m not surprised it got you going. Thanks and keep writing.
January 25, 2022 at 10:17 am
Federico Erebia / F. Jordan Erebia (@FedericoErebia)
Nice post, thanks.
January 25, 2022 at 1:17 pm
Brian Burak
This was great. Thank you!
January 25, 2022 at 8:23 pm
Rebecca Guzinski
Your hard work has paid off. Thank you for sharing your journey and “good fortunes”!
January 26, 2022 at 12:23 am
Mary Beth Rice
Love this post!
January 26, 2022 at 5:27 pm
goodreadswithronna
Wish I could show you the pile of fortunes we keep! Maybe now I know the reason why! Can’t wait for COMING OF AGE: 13 B’NAI MITZVAH STORIES!!
January 26, 2022 at 6:26 pm
Amanda
I’ve always loved reading fortune cookie notes and saving those I find to resonate with me at that particular time in my life. I stuck one to my computer a few years back that reads “Follow your heart and you will find happiness” It may or may not one day lead to a story idea, but if nothing else, inspires and motivates me in creative pursuits-or gives direction in making major life decisions.
January 27, 2022 at 9:22 am
Jen K.
I love your perseverance! I also love how a fortune cookie inspired you. I am inspired to ignore my inner critic and write. Maybe I’ll come up with some fortune cookies of my own. Thanks for your post.
January 28, 2022 at 9:38 am
Sheri Dillard
What good fortune to read your post! 🙂 Thanks for sharing!
January 28, 2022 at 11:41 am
Andrea
Keeping on going, and pushing through can be so hard. Thank you for sharing your experience!
January 28, 2022 at 1:52 pm
angiecal76
Reading your inspirational words has definitely uplifted my spirits! Thank you for sharing yourwriting journey with us.
January 29, 2022 at 11:41 am
Melissa Hastings
Thank you for the reminder to find inspiration in the littlest things and to go back to resources that are tried and true.
January 29, 2022 at 1:52 pm
LaurenKerstein
Thank you for your honest and incredibly insightful post!
January 29, 2022 at 3:14 pm
susan gruidel
As someone so new and green to the whole writing process, I find it incredibly difficult to muster the confidence and perseverance needed… it’s not based on much, just the desire to write, how good it feels to write something “I like” and not much else. Thank you for sharing your journey and for reminding me about fortune cookies. They really are fantastic, aren’t they.
January 29, 2022 at 9:35 pm
setwiggs
i’ll keep looking for that fortune and working on my writing everyday. thanks for the inspiration.
January 29, 2022 at 11:17 pm
riverwoods21
Congratulations on getting a MG Novel published. What an accomplishment. Love your inspiring journey.
January 30, 2022 at 3:16 pm
kathryn hagen
Fortune cookies and BIRD BY BIRD. Great combination. Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 3:59 pm
Anna Brooks
I love finding old fortunes in my pockets. I hope they spark an idea next time! And thank you for the reminder to reread Bird by Bird. It’s been too long, and I could use the inspiration.
January 30, 2022 at 4:07 pm
Yaa
I like the metaphor or quote you wrote in the post.
January 30, 2022 at 8:43 pm
Mina
Thank you for your insightful post and sharing your knowledge 🙂
January 30, 2022 at 9:47 pm
Krista Maxwell
Thanks for the inspiration.
January 31, 2022 at 11:49 am
Ana Archi
Bird by Bird by Anne Lamont is my goto writers coach too.
January 31, 2022 at 12:17 pm
Lucy Staugler
Melissa, going out and buying a bag of fortune cookies!! Great post!
Thank you,
Lucy Staugler
January 31, 2022 at 4:41 pm
flinn321
thank you!
January 31, 2022 at 6:54 pm
nataliemoralesbooks
I’ve loved collecting inspiring fortune cookie notes over the years but this post changed my perspective on them. Thank you!
January 31, 2022 at 7:11 pm
matike2209
Thank you for the post!
January 31, 2022 at 10:15 pm
angelapadron
Thanks for sharing!
January 31, 2022 at 11:23 pm
Jennifer Broedel
Fortune cookies are such a fun surprise- I’ve got one leftover that I’m going to crack open just for this occasion! Can’t wait to see what inspiration awaits on that little slip of paper.
February 1, 2022 at 12:11 am
Kristin Sawyer
Thank you for sharing your journey!
I randomly stick things like fortune cookie fortunes in notebooks and find them months or years later. Now I can put them to good use.
February 1, 2022 at 1:38 am
Terri Sabol
I’ll never look at fortune cookies the same again. Thanks for sharing, Melissa!
February 1, 2022 at 6:46 am
Azra Rahim
I do not give my respect to people easily. And I do not easily label people brave. But, I respect you for your brave honesty. Between doubt and self loathing….this is a place where I have spent some quality time myself. Thank you ❤
February 1, 2022 at 3:59 pm
kaitlinsikeswrites
Fortune cookies as a writing prompt, fun! Thank you.
February 1, 2022 at 4:35 pm
Sylvia Chen
Such an uplifting post and one to remember when those doubtful thoughts come up, THANK YOU!!!
February 1, 2022 at 5:46 pm
Jennifer Hunt
Thanks for sharing how you overcame self-doubt and went on to write more. 🙂
February 2, 2022 at 2:33 pm
Anne Young
Know thy character… so important.
February 2, 2022 at 3:01 pm
Janel Caverly
Thanks for the inspiration. Ordering Chinese tonight!
February 4, 2022 at 3:34 pm
Aimee Jenkins
What a fun idea for writing prompts!