by Dev Petty
Ideas are funny things. They hang around. They nag. They sit silent and unused, waiting for their moment like that sassy, sequin sweater tank top I got (for a steal!) about eight years ago and look absolutely divine in, which has never, ever been worn. I think about wearing it. I even try it on for special occasions now and again. But I can’t pull the trigger…back into the closet it goes.
We all have a drawer of ideas, some that we’ve worn, at least a little, by writing them into stories which may not have worked out. Others are impossible to even try on, too bright, too weird, too…much. But once in a great while, you get up the nerve and the stars align and you put that sequin sweater on everyone compliments you about it and you feel like a million bucks and now it’s your favorite thing in the world.
So I’ve maybe taken this metaphor too far. So let me tell you about shopping in my own idea closet.
Back in high school, a pal of mine relayed something a pal of his had said (honestly, it was pretty inappropriate) and I thought it was really, deeply funny. It was really just ONE WORD said with spot-on timing. It crept into my general banter over the years. I never forgot it. Over these last years of writing picture books I tried no less than four times to wrap a whole story around just that line, it delighted me so. Nope. Nothing.
I put it aside. For years. But then I was working on my next book: DON’T EAT BEES (Life Lessons From Chip the Dog) which will be out from PRH in May, and I realized that it was the perfect setup for this line, this single word, which teases through the book and creates just the perfect ending (you’ll have to read it to find out what it is). The book nearly wrote itself after that and I couldn’t be more excited about it—Mike Boldt and I are back together again, this time with a dog (not a frog).
Sometimes a story idea is just a line. It’s not a title or a character. It’s not about friendship or bravery or anything specific. It’s a line, a word, a mechanism, a perfect pause in response to a visual gag. It’s a monster at the end of the book, a fish who most definitely didn’t take a hat that he totally, absolutely took, a seagull who was carrying a bucket of paint, though “no one knows why”. Forget plot-ty superhero movies, we’re talking Newhart, Buster Keaton, The Far Side, Jack Handey here. Small, might-be-insignificant-to-others-but-you-write-picture-books, idiosyncratic oddities which shine a light on the human experience.
Sometimes the biggest ideas aren’t elaborate, they’re simple—because those simple things can reflect bigger ideas about how we process the world, our inclinations, our conflicts. They cut down to the core that we all share and remove themselves from more specific experiences like family or school or doctor’s offices. Sometimes these little idea fragments can have whole stories wrapped around them, or become just twists, endings, or story structures. My most successful stories have come from things just like this. Truth? This can take a little more time, or at least “different” time than a more traditional approach. You may not know who your character is, or what their problem is, or any of the usual stuff. But I’m a big believer that boundaries and edges create the best work, and if you DO have a concept you’re trying to work in, you let that lead and you follow.
Now, how do you find these odd little conceptual thingamiggies? Surely, the best ones will come from your own life. They will come from your own vernacular, stories told over dinner about funny happenings, misunderstandings, mistakes. They come from your childhood, your family and your friends. They come from television shows and films, I’m a particular fan of lines from songs and I might be able to retire on my former coworkers’ quirks alone! When you stop looking for whole stories and just start seeing the world as concepts and twists, surprise endings, odd moments, you can turn those things into rich, layered stories with wide appeal because they aren’t so specific to one person or their experience. Even if you have NO idea what to do with one of these little fellas, just write em down. They may even nag you until you try them on.
So go dig around in your life-drawer. You may find your sequin sweater in a forgotten, half-written manuscript, or a childhood story your kids have heard you tell so many times they can tell it themselves. Try it on and look in the mirror. It might just turn into one hell of an outfit!
Dev Petty writes books for kids. Hopefully ones which make you laugh a lot and think a little. She lives in Berkeley with her husband, daughters, two dogs, one mean cat, and a snake named Boots. You can read Dev’s work in two upcoming books this spring, DON’T EAT BEES, Life Lessons From Chip the Dog, illustrated by Mike Boldt (PRH) and HOW OLD IS MR. TORTOISE?, illustrated by Ruth Chan (Abrams). Visit her at devpetty.com and follow on Twitter @devpetty and Instagram @devpetty.
Dev is giving away a half-hour zoom to talk about PBs, plus 3 copies of her new book DON’T EAT BEES (when released).
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.
705 comments
Comments feed for this article
January 30, 2022 at 8:09 am
kiwijenny
Dev I teach pre K and we are the Busy Bees.I’m buying Don’t Eat Bees in May…and that’s not maybe I will. I’ve said puns my whole life I’m digging in my sequin drawer …perfect blog my mother in law calls it blob.. there’s a story lol Thank you my creative juices are flowing.
January 30, 2022 at 8:12 am
thecrowsmap
Dev, I will definitely be looking for Don’t Eat Bees. I have to know what that word is! Thanks for a great post and congratulations.
Gail Hartman
January 30, 2022 at 8:16 am
Lynn McCracken
We just came through a blizzard in New England. It will be a great day to rummage through drawers and closets. Thank you for the ideas!
January 30, 2022 at 8:16 am
Jeanne Cherney
Working on a half – forgotten manuscript
January 30, 2022 at 8:17 am
Afsheen
Thanks Dev for sowing seeds of creativity and imagination. Totally agreed with my stories comes from plots.
January 30, 2022 at 8:17 am
Lauren Barbieri
I smiled when I read “odd little conceptual thingamiggies” because though I’ve never described it this way, I often think in them!
Thank you for the post.
January 30, 2022 at 8:19 am
Rebecca McMurdie
Love this! This makes me wonder how many times have I had ideas I had that I never wrote down? Hmmmm
January 30, 2022 at 8:21 am
Laura Rackham
Time to dig!
January 30, 2022 at 8:24 am
Sarah Tobias
I love this! I have written down full conversations because I thought they we so funny. I have a line from years ago that still pops up now and then. I need to push the habit of writing things down even more. Keeps you in the moment too because everything can become writing and illustrating gold.
January 30, 2022 at 8:27 am
Lenora (can't stop, won't stop writing) Biemans (@BiemansLenora)
I love this, Dev and it gives me hope for some of my little fragments and jokes. I can’t wait to read your latest.
January 30, 2022 at 8:28 am
michelemeleen
I think this means it’s time to dust off lists from STORYSTORMs passed!
January 30, 2022 at 8:29 am
libbydemmon
“…idiosyncratic oddities which shine a light on the human experience.“ Oh, how I love this! Thanks for the insight. And now I have to know what the single word at the end of your upcoming book is.
January 30, 2022 at 8:31 am
mona861
Thank you, Dev. I have lots of idea fragments tucked here and there. You’ve given me an idea of how to follow them and find the story wrapped around. I think I’ve been trying to grab the full story quickly instead of paying attention to where the fragment might lead me. Gonna set one of those fragments on the table today and see what happens. Who knows!
January 30, 2022 at 8:33 am
Kellie DuBay Gillis
Thanks, Dev, for giving us encouragement to not throw away the unworn sequin sweaters in our writing wardrobe!
January 30, 2022 at 8:36 am
Midge Smith
Thank you, Dev! This really struck a chord with me!
January 30, 2022 at 8:36 am
Alice Fulgione
I LOVED your suggestions about looking for words, little story fragments, lines, parts of our unfinished stories, & somehow using them in brand, new stories. I’m off now to find my unworn, sequenced sweater. This post really got my creative juices flowing. I’ll definitely be looking for your books. Love your silly titles! Thanks for the post!
January 30, 2022 at 8:36 am
Joyce Uglow
There is truth in sequins. I’ve lived that reality. I have a sneaking suspicion that I’m going to learn more about life when Chip hits my bookshelf. Dev, you’re amazing.
January 30, 2022 at 8:38 am
Constance Lombardo
Thanks for this great post! Time to go digging in my mental closet (ew.) Would love to talk to you about PBs!!
January 30, 2022 at 8:42 am
rbkrackeler
This is so good-thank you!!
January 30, 2022 at 8:42 am
Audrey
Oh that is SUCH a tease! I am so curious now and you’re making us wait until MAY to find out what the word is????
Quite effective though.
Thanks for the inspiration.
January 30, 2022 at 8:42 am
rbkrackeler
This is so good-thank you!!!
January 30, 2022 at 8:46 am
romontanaro
Brilliant! Thank you Tara and thank you Dev. I got lost in your post, I enjoyed it so much. I appreciate you sharing your wisdom – I’ll never forget your little Twitter napkin notes – now, expanded here. I’m so intrigued by your new book – I look forward to reading – congratulations! Thanks so much for everything you both offer the kid lit community. Rosanna Montanaro
January 30, 2022 at 8:48 am
jenfierjasinski
Thanks Dev. Fantastic post and motivation to shop through my own closet of ideas. And thanks Tara, it’s because of Storystorm I have a walk-in.
January 30, 2022 at 8:48 am
lsheroan
This post was exactly what I needed to read!
January 30, 2022 at 8:50 am
annier1996
Thanks for the fun post, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 8:51 am
terrikasuba
Love this idea!
January 30, 2022 at 8:58 am
Jany Campana
Thanks Dev for inspiring me to open up to my closet idea!!!
January 30, 2022 at 9:03 am
Jane Baskwill
A great post. I put a new bulb in my closet so I can keep an eye out for those odd moments, concepts and twists. Thanks.
January 30, 2022 at 9:07 am
Lou Aamodt
Very validating advice. It’s hard for a type-A plotter to follow, but worth a try.
January 30, 2022 at 9:08 am
irmelsa
So many of my stories of all lengths start with a single word or phrase!
January 30, 2022 at 9:08 am
brennajeanneret
Yes! I feel seen. Thanks, Dev 🙂
January 30, 2022 at 9:10 am
Suzanne Lewis
Great perspective changing suggestions, Dev. Thanks so much! Congratulations on Don’t Eat Bees!
January 30, 2022 at 9:12 am
Robin Brett Wechsler
Such a thoughtful post! I will aim to follow boundaries and edges. Thank you, Dev! I’m excited to read your newest book.
January 30, 2022 at 9:13 am
Kathy Kelly
I keep my thingamiggies in a mental accessories drawer. I promise to dig into it more often, if you promise to wear that tank top! (Wearing it for a virtual event still counts.)
January 30, 2022 at 9:14 am
Jill Purtee (P. J.)
I need to dig in my closet . . . ‘wear’ some of my ‘sequin tops.’ Thank you.
January 30, 2022 at 9:16 am
mbhmaine
I absolutely love love love this post! Your metaphor is perfect and so many phrases and lines jumped out at me–“Small, might-be-insignificant-to-others-but-you-write-picture-books, idiosyncratic oddities which shine a light on the human experience.” “boundaries and edges create the best work” and so many more! Thanks for this!!
January 30, 2022 at 9:16 am
Amanda
Food for thought!
January 30, 2022 at 9:19 am
anchance
I can’t wait to read Don’t Eat Bees. Congratulations and thank you for your ideas!
January 30, 2022 at 9:19 am
Allison Strick (she/her) (@byallisonstrick)
OK, now I’m not feeling so bad that most of my storystorm ideas are just random words and phrases…I can’t wait to read Don’t Eat Bees to find out what your sequin-sweater-punchline is!
January 30, 2022 at 9:20 am
kurtzmom548513
Thank you Dev! Your suggestion to explore those ideas or memories that keep popping up is a very good one. In my morning journaling I, ideas or memories have reoccurred. I think I dismissed some too soon and now will revisit them.
January 30, 2022 at 9:21 am
Vanessa Konoval
So unique and useful, and such a great read! Thank you for posting!!
January 30, 2022 at 9:22 am
rebeccacolby
Heading into my life-drawers now and see what I can dig up! Thank you, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 9:23 am
Deb Sullivan
Such a relatable post, Dev – plenty of sequin sweaters in my arsenal. Thanks for sharing!
January 30, 2022 at 9:23 am
Catherine
Great tips Dev! Thank you for sharing this article. Loved it, congratulations on your books!
January 30, 2022 at 9:24 am
Debi Boccanfuso
I have a “closet full of “ideas…. I need to revisit them and try them on in new ways! THANKS!
January 30, 2022 at 9:25 am
kathalsey
Dev, I sure do shop my closet and have a shiny striped sweater I might break out for my birthday next week. And I took an idea from last year’s Storystorm and got a whole 3 drafts out of it, so far. YOU and Mike Boldt are quite the team. Congrats on the 2 books coming out and ty for this advice.
January 30, 2022 at 9:26 am
Andrea
Thank you! I have so many boxes full of ideas scribbled on the backs of receipts, and on napkins hiding away in the cellar amongst other boxes of memories. I wonder if I open them up how many of those memories might spark some new ideas or give air to the old ones.
January 30, 2022 at 9:26 am
sherry fellores
Yes… I have those things in my closet! Great advice!
January 30, 2022 at 9:27 am
Linda Kay Chavez
I love this post! It really speaks to me. I’ve got a sentence, the way you had a word, that just dangles in my mind. Thanks for sharing your thinking!
January 30, 2022 at 9:28 am
Janice Woods
Great advice! Thanks for sharing!
January 30, 2022 at 9:31 am
Jennifer Vose
Thanks, Dev! I absolutely love this sequin top story story! It’s so true that the littlest things in our daily lives can end up being focal points for stories. I think we just have to be mindful and take note of things without letting them pass us by as having no potential! Sometimes the seemingly most insignificant thing gives me an idea, and I’m so glad I was paying attention! Now, I just have to take the advice of others and write down these little gems as soon as they come to mind, otherwise, they are likely to be forgotten. So, the moral is – be mindful!
January 30, 2022 at 9:32 am
Andrea Mack
Thanks for the motivation! I love the phrase “dig around in your life drawer.” Might be the start of a story right there.
January 30, 2022 at 9:34 am
Nancy Tupper Ling
Most excellent!!
January 30, 2022 at 9:34 am
kathydoherty1
I will continue to nurture those little idea fragments. Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 9:36 am
Reed Hilton-Eddy
Dev- even your post is a funny and entertaining with a lesson snuggled in. A story with a circular ending and metaphors abound!
Love this post!
January 30, 2022 at 9:38 am
Sydnie Kleinhenz
Thanks for the insight to finding ideas.
January 30, 2022 at 9:41 am
Writer on the run
Great inspiration! I have a whole file of ideas I put away- time to get them out!
January 30, 2022 at 9:44 am
Lucretia Schafroth
Thank you, Dev! What a fun and engaging post to inspire us! I can so relate to having “odd little conceptual thingamiggies” surfing around in my thoughts! Now, to be better about catching them and riding their wave to writing inspiration… Congratulations on Don’t Eat Bees–can’t wait to find out exactly what that single word is!
January 30, 2022 at 9:45 am
Christina Dendy
I just loved reading the metaphors! Such a well written post! But I agree whole heartedly with the content, too. Is anyone else’s idea closet as messy as mine? 🙂
January 30, 2022 at 9:49 am
Andria Rosenbaum
I’m hoping to find a few vintage pieces in my closet. Thanks so much for the ingenious inspiration!
January 30, 2022 at 9:49 am
Laurie Fortier
Thanks so much, Dev! I’m going to stop throwing things away when I clean my closets!
January 30, 2022 at 9:50 am
Amanda Driscoll
So much truth in this post! Thanks for sharing and making us think. Going to my idea closet now!
January 30, 2022 at 9:51 am
Beverly Smith
You’ve nailed it. This hit the heart of so many quirky things and moments just on the edge of inspiration that tease with the promise of something bigger.
Thank you! I can’t wait to learn from Chip’s hard earned wisdom!
January 30, 2022 at 9:51 am
Hannah Roy LaGrone
A great reminder that just a word or phrase can count as an idea and turn into something more!
January 30, 2022 at 9:51 am
Janna MacLean
Ohh, idea: maybe whoever wins this a zoom call with you that YOU can wear that sequin top! but then you’d have to say you wore it. Thanks for the inspiration post!
January 30, 2022 at 3:45 pm
Alicia Shawn Gagnon
Ha Ha. Yes! Wear the sparkly top! And FYI, my former neighbor’s dog used to eat bees…with mixed results! Loved this entire blog. TU!
January 30, 2022 at 9:53 am
rozanark
“When you stop looking for whole stories and just start seeing the world as concepts and twists, surprise endings, odd moments, you can turn those things into rich, layered stories with wide appeal…” This really resonated with me, thank you for sharing this very inspiring post!
January 30, 2022 at 9:54 am
jenanyong
Can’t wait to read “Don’t Eat Bees” so I can find out THE WORD! LOL! You’re a clever girl. Thank you for the awesome post!
January 30, 2022 at 9:55 am
ptnozell
I have one of those nagging ideas that pops up in my brain periodically. I’ll write it down & hopefully come up with its story soon! Thanks for the inspiration!
January 30, 2022 at 9:55 am
Rebecca Gardyn Levington
Such a great post! I do this a lot too — just write down just totally random words or phrases that seem interesting to me. They usually go nowhere, but once in a while they sparks something or they mesh with other ideas that sparks something else I hadn’t considered. So important to write all those nuggets down! Thanks for the reminder and congrats on your upcoming books!
January 30, 2022 at 9:57 am
Polly Renner
Thanks Dev! I love your books, and am excited to read your newest one, too;)
January 30, 2022 at 10:00 am
Elyse Trevers
People say if you haven’t worn something in a year to toss it, but after reading your post, I will certainly revisit the things in my ‘closet.’ Thank you.
January 30, 2022 at 10:00 am
Bea Brown
So much came to mind as I read your post. Feeling inspired as I listen to the ideas knocking to get out of my idea closet.
January 30, 2022 at 10:01 am
Stephanie Rondeau
I think this is my favorite Storystorm post yet! I resonate with this one because most of my ideas are fragmented thoughts, words, characters that won’t leave me alone. Thanks for this inspiration!
January 30, 2022 at 10:02 am
judyrubin13
Thank you, Dev, for reminding us about the simplicity in idea gathering. I really enjoyed reading your blog.
January 30, 2022 at 10:02 am
wordwritermo
There are things that stick with you for sure! Our family alone creates a metric ton a year. And then there are my co-workers…gold! Fabulous post, thank you.
–Melisa Wrex (@mowrex on Twitter)
January 30, 2022 at 10:03 am
Phyllis Mignard
Thanks so much for your inspiring post on using our story sparks instead of hiding them in a drawer. I’ve already opened the drawer and pulled them out! Time to get to work —
January 30, 2022 at 10:05 am
rosecappelli
Great post! Thank you for the inspiration!
January 30, 2022 at 10:06 am
Phyllis Mignard
Thanks so much for your inspiring post on using our story sparks instead of hiding them away in a drawer. I’ve already opened my drawer and pulled out a pile of story ideas. Time to get to work!
January 30, 2022 at 10:06 am
KATHY Z PRICE
I just pulled out my old notebooks the other day–the light had been blinding my studio, from all the gold still waiting to be mined. hah! Thanks for reminding us–that fun stories can start with an obsession,even if years on the shelf
January 30, 2022 at 10:08 am
Nadine Poper
Dev, your books are so so fun! I think this closet metaphor is definitely helpful. Thank you for sharing with us.
January 30, 2022 at 10:09 am
talararuth
Love this! You got my creative juices awake this morning! Many thanks!
January 30, 2022 at 10:10 am
Susan Gruidel
So simple. Not easy to do. Thank you for the inspiration and for sharing.
January 30, 2022 at 10:11 am
Mia Geiger
Great post! Lots to think about!
Best wishes with your newest book! 🙂
January 30, 2022 at 10:12 am
andreesantini
Ah, I love the closet analogy. Thanks for your fun and inspiring post.
January 30, 2022 at 10:12 am
Rachelle Burk
Really loved this post! Looking forward to reading the book!
January 30, 2022 at 10:12 am
writersideup
Dev, this is eXACTly what I do 😀 I have more scrap notes than I can count, and at one point, not wanting to rewrite all of them into a formal list, I pasted them onto looseleaf pages in a binder (and need to catch up with all the new “tidbit” notes!). This post/metaphor is brilliant. So spot on. Thank you 😀
January 30, 2022 at 10:13 am
Paisley Schade
Great post — can’t wait to read the ending and see that sparkle top.
January 30, 2022 at 10:13 am
cathystenquist
Thanks Dev, for the reminder to revisit those scribbles, names, thoughts and ideas. waiting for some attention. Putting on my helmet, grabbing my pick and heading out to the mine 🙂 Can’t wait to read your book!
January 30, 2022 at 10:16 am
Colleen Owen Murphy
I love your story, and I cannot wait to hear what that one word was that the pal of the pal told you. Have you contacted him to let him know how you were inspired by him? That would be kind of fun. Thank you for the great advice.
January 30, 2022 at 10:16 am
rekrall@yahoo.com
Thank you for the great advice, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 10:16 am
Wendi Silvano
Love your books Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 10:16 am
Mara K Lansky
oddities!
January 30, 2022 at 10:16 am
regm55
I cannot wait for Don’t Eat Bees. Dev Petty is brilliant and I adored her frog story. I may use it as a comp for a story I wrote about a kitten. Oh no. Another cat story! I can hear folks say. I promise this one is different. Here’s to all those nagging ideas that don’t leave us in peace. There’s a reason we have to listen to them. They want to emerge and make someone laugh, make someone cry, lift someone up or just plain give a child a new way to see the world!!
January 30, 2022 at 10:17 am
Joan Longstaff
What a great post Dev, funny but incredibly useful. Your post made something very specific to my family pop into my head and it’s already sparking ideas! Yeah!
January 30, 2022 at 10:17 am
Shirley fadden
That was lovely and I have the same top. Thanks!
January 30, 2022 at 10:17 am
maureenegan
Bring on the sequins!
January 30, 2022 at 10:17 am
chalenar
Thanks Dev. This was the perfect kick-in-the-butt to go through the junk-drawer in my head and pull out all those miscellaneous thoughts I’ve been saving for years and put them to work.
January 30, 2022 at 10:17 am
Abigail Perry
My kids love your books!
January 30, 2022 at 10:18 am
Becki Kidd
Can’t wait to read your book! thanks for your insights & for making me laugh.
January 30, 2022 at 10:18 am
TheHugBooks (@Hug_Books)
Thanks to Storystorm and posts like this, definitely seeing more “that would make a great PB” moments in my every day. Just need to remember them long enough to get into a journal for later!
January 30, 2022 at 10:19 am
pathaap
Great post, Dev! Whenever a word I either hear, or just pops in my head, I write it down, and then forget about it. Thanks for the reminder to go back and take a second look. Curious about the single word that inspired you. Congratulations on your story!
January 30, 2022 at 10:19 am
Penelope McNally
Your post really spoke to me Dev, as I too have the equivalent of a sassy, sequined sweater in my closet that I take out, put on for the party, only to think, nah, not this time and back it goes. I also have snippets of phrases and words that I just love, written down in a notebook, patiently waiting their turn to go to the party. You’ve inspired me to revisit them and just go with it. I can’t wait to read DON’T EAT BEES for the big reveal!
January 30, 2022 at 10:22 am
Janie Reinart
Dev,
I like the shinny things, too. Enjoyed the post.
January 30, 2022 at 10:23 am
ramonapersaudwrites
Oh my goodness, talk about a cliffhanger here. I’m super curious about the line that sparked the story. Thanks for the reminder to note the wow in the ordinary.
January 30, 2022 at 10:27 am
Maria B.
Thank you! I can’t wait to title one of my notebook pages: ODD LITTLE CONCEPTUAL THINGAMIGGIES!
January 30, 2022 at 10:28 am
wordnerd153
Oh my gosh, way to tease your upcoming book! I am dying to read it. Love the advice/post. Thanks!
January 30, 2022 at 10:29 am
kmajor2013
Thingamingles? That’s a new one for me. Great post, Dev! Going a hunting for some “thingamingles”. Thanks and congrats on DON’T EAT BEES!
January 30, 2022 at 10:30 am
Leigh Anne Carter
Thanks for the great post, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 10:31 am
Linda Staszak
Great post. Ideas are there–we just have to find them. Thanks.
January 30, 2022 at 10:31 am
SCody
I love this idea for inspiration because those little pieces in our “closet” are so true to life and have so much meaning that can be opened out! I’ll be reflecting and writing some down for sure!
January 30, 2022 at 10:31 am
adavis6385
On the hunt for thingamiggies! Thanks for the inspiration, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 10:33 am
Annelouise Mahoney
Such a great post, Dev. Thank you. I can’t wait to read, Don’t Eat Bees: Life Lessons From Chip The Dog. It looks so fun!
January 30, 2022 at 10:36 am
Sue Newton
Thanks so much for this Dev.
I’m off to squeeze into that sequin tank top…maybe wear it back to front…add a bit more material…cut a dart so it fits…
Think I may have overdone that analogy a tad!!
Great post!
January 30, 2022 at 10:36 am
Cheryl Simon
This is an awesome post! I can’t wait for Don’t Eat Bees to come out! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 10:37 am
lavern15
I loved this metaphor! It was so “fitting” just like the right outfit. Thanks so much for your wisdom and encouragement. Looking forward to reading your books!
January 30, 2022 at 10:37 am
Candace Spizzirri
Thanks, Dev! Loved this post!
January 30, 2022 at 10:41 am
David McMullin
Thanks, Dev. This is wonderful.
January 30, 2022 at 10:41 am
Rosalind Malin
Thank-you! My stories are more jokes around concepts than earth shattering enlightenments with a twisted plot. Gives me hope.
January 30, 2022 at 10:41 am
Leslie Santamaria
Thanks for validating all the odd snippets in my idea journal, Dev. Your post makes me eager to try some of them on again!
January 30, 2022 at 10:42 am
Angel Gantnier
Thank you for the post.
January 30, 2022 at 10:44 am
savoringeverymoment
Um way to buzz up interest in your book! Now we’ll all buy it just to find out what that word is! Thanks for sharing this great idea-generating post.
January 30, 2022 at 10:46 am
Leah Marks
The best books make you curious. Thanks for arousing my curiosity about your new book and finding sparkling ideas!
January 30, 2022 at 10:48 am
geigerlin
I think I hear a whisper in my ear…might be a story idea…think I’ll write it down. Thank You, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 10:50 am
kimpfenn
I love the inspiration from this post along with any book that combines Dev Petty and Mike Boldt! Thanks Deb and Tara – this has quite a few ideas buzzing!
January 30, 2022 at 10:53 am
katiemillsgiorgio
Thanks for sharing!
January 30, 2022 at 10:54 am
CB Jarapa
I love your advice! Thank you! I also have a sparkly top that’s been hanging in my closet for 20years 😅
January 30, 2022 at 10:54 am
Annie Guerra
Another great post! I love the concept of using these thingamiggies that follow us all around as inspiration, and I am already sad that StoryStorm ends soon. Annie Guerra
January 30, 2022 at 10:55 am
Erica Shiflet
What FANTASTIC inspiration! I love focusing on finding those little nuggets, not the whole story. Because those nuggets really are all around us (the idea kind AND the chicken kind if you have kiddos). Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 10:58 am
Linda KulpTrout
I can’t wait to read Don’t Eat Bees! Thank you for this inspiring post!
January 30, 2022 at 10:58 am
Patti Ranson
Thingamajiggies, whatchamacallits, thingamabobs, doohickies….Watching for them all:) Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 11:01 am
calliebdean
I love finding these little ideas all around!
January 30, 2022 at 11:01 am
Jessica Fries-Gaither
“ When you stop looking for whole stories and just start seeing the world as concepts and twists, surprise endings, odd moments, you can turn those things into rich, layered stories with wide appeal because they aren’t so specific to one person or their experience.”
As someone whose Storystorm journal is filled with bits and pieces that I have NO idea what to do with (yet), this gives me a lot of hope! Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 11:03 am
ranessadoucet
I related so much to this post because often times I am inspired by just a word, or line, or concept that I don’t know what to do with even though it keeps nagging me! I can’t wait for “Don’t Eat Bees” to come out so I can find out what that line is! Also, in my closet are some super sparkly heels that one day will be worn, I just know it!
January 30, 2022 at 11:08 am
Kimberly Marcus
Everyone should wear more sparkles. Thanks for a thought provoking, depth filled post. Can’t wait for your bee book!!!
January 30, 2022 at 11:09 am
Stephanie Gibeault
This was such a helpful post! I often find inspiration in snippets as well. Congratulations on Don’t Eat Bees. It sounds hilarious!
January 30, 2022 at 11:09 am
Cristina Chan
I definitely have a couple of sequin sweaters I need to dust off. Thank you for the inspiration!
January 30, 2022 at 11:10 am
Brigita O
Ideas are everywhere, we just need to pay attention, so true.
January 30, 2022 at 11:11 am
Meg M
Oh, I really REALLY want to know about the word from the past that you worked into this book. Thanks for great inspiration today.
January 30, 2022 at 11:12 am
kate
Wow! I have a sassy sequined top I’ve never worn either. Your words opened my own drawer that is full of possibilities. Now, I need to look through it with new eyes. Thank you for this awesome post, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 11:14 am
Federico Erebia / F. Jordan Erebia (@FedericoErebia)
Looking forward to reading your new book!
January 30, 2022 at 11:20 am
Ronda Einbinder
The simple ideas are the best ideas!
January 30, 2022 at 11:20 am
Beth Auman
Really great post. Thank you.
January 30, 2022 at 11:28 am
Jessica Swaim
My favorite post of this year’s Storystorm! I really need to get out of these yoga clothes and into something less comfortable. Thank you, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 11:28 am
karamarsee8716
I love the clothing/closet analogy Dev! Hidden gems can be sequins, too. 🙂 Thanks for this post.
January 30, 2022 at 11:29 am
heidikyates
I love this inspiring post! Thank you, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 11:31 am
bevbaird
Really inspired with your post. So much to take from it. Loved the idea of ” boundaries and edges create the best work,” Need to dive back into my idea files. Thank you.
January 30, 2022 at 11:35 am
Abraham Schroeder
Love all these ideas, and can’t wait to read your new book!
January 30, 2022 at 11:35 am
paulajbecker
A snake named Boots? Heh! There’s a story there! Thank you for the tips and encouragement, Dev! And congrats on your books!
January 30, 2022 at 11:36 am
Louann Brown
Thanks for the helpful suggestions. I’m going to check my closet for those hidden gems.
January 30, 2022 at 11:38 am
N. Alison Colle
Inspiring and incitful. Thank you for such a practical post!
January 30, 2022 at 11:38 am
Samantha
I know exactly what Dev means! I write down my son’s one-liners all the time in hopes that they’ll find a place in a funny ms. Great advice!
January 30, 2022 at 11:39 am
Sarah Hetu-Radny
I am totally going to have a idea draw in my work office once I create my work office!!! Thank you for your post!
January 30, 2022 at 11:40 am
lizricewrites
I love the idea of shopping in our idea closet!
January 30, 2022 at 11:41 am
Cinzia
I just got “stung” with ideas! And I’m checking out those flashy tops tucked away in my idea closet. Thank you, Dev, for today’s inspiration.
January 30, 2022 at 11:41 am
M. P. McCune
Love these tips for inspiration and will not rest until I know what that one word is…
January 30, 2022 at 11:46 am
Pamela Brunskill
What a great post! Now I’m eager to read DON’T EAT BEES to find out the ending line! Thanks for sharing your insights with us and how sometimes we can makes stories out of concepts and non traditional approaches.
January 30, 2022 at 11:53 am
sue macartney
Love this fresh twist on how we can mine our life experiences for potential story ideas – thank you!!
January 30, 2022 at 11:56 am
jbbower
What great ideas! Time to get digging. Hope I pull out a treasure! Thanks!
January 30, 2022 at 11:56 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Your sequins always sparkle Dev! Can’t wait to read your latest!
January 30, 2022 at 11:57 am
susanpbednargmailcom
Such a helpful reminder that a book idea doesn’t have to be a fully formed story from the start 🙂 thanks
January 30, 2022 at 11:57 am
Maria Altizer
I like thinking about story ideas in smaller chunks. It opens up so many more of deas. Congratulations on your upcoming books.
January 30, 2022 at 11:58 am
Nadia Salomon
Thanks for this hilarious and inspirational post. It’s like getting a two-fer!! Mining ideas – even if it’s only ‘one’ word and that the sparkly pants I recently bought for a steal, just might have a chance to be worn after all, even though it might have to wait a few years!! THANK YOU!!
January 30, 2022 at 12:00 pm
Debbie Austin
Thank you, Dev! I love this idea of looking for small, simple things to illustrate bigger concepts. Your book looks super fun!
January 30, 2022 at 12:01 pm
Katie Marie
Thanks for sharing! I look forward to reading DON’T EAT BEES when it’s released.
January 30, 2022 at 12:03 pm
Earl @ The Chronicles Of A Children's Book Writer
I definitely need to organize my old notebooks to look for ideas that might be ready to “wear”.
January 30, 2022 at 12:10 pm
martyfindley
I loved the analogy of trying on ideas like clothes from your closet – especially now that we have a closet of ideas from Storystorm! I can’t wait to read “Don’t Eat Bees”.
January 30, 2022 at 12:11 pm
Joyce Schriebman
An idea waiting for a story… 😉 Thanks.
January 30, 2022 at 12:11 pm
Jan Milusich
I love those sweaters that have the sequins you can flip so they reveal a different color and image!
January 30, 2022 at 12:13 pm
tracivw
Thanks for the inspiration this morning, Dev! A phrase that has circulated in my family for so, so many years has finally shaken loose in my brain as a story. I’ve got a brand new shiny yet rough draft (sweater)! And, as a dog owner with a roof garden and some big ol’ bees she snaps at, I can’t wait to read Chip the Dog’s lessons on the subject.
January 30, 2022 at 12:14 pm
Rochelle Y Melander
Great ideas!
January 30, 2022 at 12:16 pm
Alison McGauley
“Sometimes a story idea is just a line” — I love this!! Thanks so much. Yes, sometimes I like the way words sound together, or a phrase strikes me as funny. It doesn’t seem like a full idea at the time, but I will start to record these random lines and they may spark an idea, or become a part of a bigger story. Thanks!
January 30, 2022 at 12:20 pm
marsha weiner
true… true… so true; yup… got it.. i can relate…
tx!
January 30, 2022 at 12:23 pm
Jennifer Kennedy
Thanks so much for this reminder that your ideas don’t always have to inspire a title or main character; you can come at it from a different direction!
January 30, 2022 at 12:24 pm
Mary Ann Blair
Can’t wait to read your new book! Thanks for the ideas!
January 30, 2022 at 12:25 pm
cinzialverde
Dev, thanks so much for this post. It was so true and awesome. I love the reminder that ideas don’t have to be whole stories!
January 30, 2022 at 12:29 pm
JoLynne Ricker Whalen
I just love Dev’s work, and can’t wait for her and Mike’s new book!
January 30, 2022 at 12:29 pm
K Orr
Thanks for the reminder that each day can be a trove of ideas!
January 30, 2022 at 12:29 pm
kskeesling
Another team up with Mike Boldt? Sounds great! Congratulations on your new books. Thanks for the great tip on rummaging.
January 30, 2022 at 12:30 pm
Marcia Parks
Some of my best stories have evolved from a word or a line. Thank you for this.
January 30, 2022 at 12:33 pm
writeremmcbride
Dev, this is so encouraging to me. Some of my manuscripts are about ideas, more than characters or events. As you said, they take more time – to develop and to garner support enough to sell, but if they are driving your writing, they need to be pursued. I’ll keep trying! Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 12:36 pm
Rona Shirdan
Thanks for your tips!
January 30, 2022 at 12:37 pm
lmconnors
Wonderful advice…and fun to contemplate. Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 12:37 pm
Sallye O'Rourke
Such a fun and inspiring post1
January 30, 2022 at 12:38 pm
Jane Martin
I love sequin tops! And I love your ideas! Thanks for sharing.
January 30, 2022 at 12:39 pm
authoraileenstewart
Wonderful ideas and I really think we deserve a picture of you in that sequined top :0)
January 30, 2022 at 12:40 pm
Christine Fleming McIsaac
Love this! Ideas are so in the little things. Thanks for sharing. Look forward to reading and figuring out that word.
January 30, 2022 at 12:41 pm
donnacangelosi
Thanks for this inspiring post. Love your reminder that sometimes stories begin from just a line.
January 30, 2022 at 12:44 pm
Lucky Jo Boscarino
Let’s see, I’ve got a drawer full of buttons, twine, power cords for disappeared electronics, and half a garden gnome. Sounds like a picture book to me! Thanks, Dev.
January 30, 2022 at 12:44 pm
mdk45d
What a great post, Dev. The small, simple snippets can yield rich results. Thank you.
January 30, 2022 at 12:47 pm
Krissy
Time to go shopping in my closet! Thanks!
January 30, 2022 at 12:47 pm
Laura Purdie Salas
Lovely post–I’m so curious about what everyone’s glittery sweaters look like!
January 30, 2022 at 12:48 pm
Shirley Ng-Benitez
Really wonderful advice, thank you so much, Dev and congratulations on your books!
January 30, 2022 at 12:51 pm
leslieevatayloe
Top-notch post! I’ll keep this one to read over and over again. Thank you and congrats! Best wishes in 2022.
January 30, 2022 at 12:51 pm
thedayswehold
Now I NEED to
Read Don’t Eat Bees! Thank you for the great inspiration!
January 30, 2022 at 12:52 pm
Melissa Stoller
I love this idea to dig in your life drawer. Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 12:53 pm
kirstenpendreigh
Dev–Sparkly Queen of metaphor magic! Thank you for this great post! I don’t, as a rule, eat bees, but I can’t wait for the other life lessons from Chip! xoxox
January 30, 2022 at 12:55 pm
jmcegan
I have a PB I worked on but couldn’t get right. I’m going to retry from a new perspective. Thanks for the idea.
January 30, 2022 at 12:57 pm
Meredith Fraser
Thank you for this post.
My closet is full of silly things I hear children say. Need to take them out, try them on and see where they take me.
January 30, 2022 at 12:58 pm
EmmieRWerner
❤️❤️❤️your encouragement
January 30, 2022 at 12:58 pm
Tara
This was so great. I have some ideas like that rolling around in my mind and it has inspired me to write them down and try to attach them to a manuscript that needs to be reapproached. Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 1:00 pm
Janet Halfmann
Will have to dig even deeper into my life drawer!
January 30, 2022 at 1:03 pm
Anne Louise Wan
Just brilliant! I often discard ideas because I can’t make them work. I’ll keep collecting and and trying them on (Mmm… my with an accessory or two.)
January 30, 2022 at 1:06 pm
Amy Bradshaw
I also have so many words and phrases that I come back to time and time again. Hope to make it all come together this year!
January 30, 2022 at 1:07 pm
jhall2018
This was great – thank you! Also, I too have a sassy, sequin sweater tank top that I can’t get rid of, haha! Only been worn once…but…
January 30, 2022 at 1:08 pm
streetlynn
Thank you! Great ideas!
January 30, 2022 at 1:09 pm
sunflowerscribe
Dev this line — Small, might-be-insignificant-to-others-but-you-write-picture-books, idiosyncratic oddities which shine a light on the human experience.
Pure brilliance! It struck a chord with me enough so that in adding it to my storystorm file to remind me that all it takes is a spark!
January 30, 2022 at 1:12 pm
Mark Ceilley
These are great ways to generate story ideas! Thank you for your post!
January 30, 2022 at 1:15 pm
fspoesy
Great post. I can’t wait to find out what that one word is.
January 30, 2022 at 1:17 pm
saintamovin
Thank you Dev😊
January 30, 2022 at 1:18 pm
authordebradaugherty
Thanks, Dev, for this fun post. What a way to sell a book! I have to read Don’t Eat Bees to find out that secret word. I am going to dig in my closet for my flashy sequin top.
January 30, 2022 at 1:19 pm
Kristen Indahl
This post really spoke to me. I have tons of mismatched socks in my closet, and realized that they may eventually create an outfit. Thank you so much, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 1:21 pm
Annie Lynn/AnnieBirdd Music, LLC
Dev, as is often the case, I connected with your post, and again thought, “This chick is deeeeep.” Even when you are being silly, you are still putting out a concept or observation that gives your readers pause, in a good way, to absorb that message. I am inspired, and you have strongly confirmed many of my experiences as being more than just memories. They can live on through story and song. I’ve found the best material and most success that way. Congratulations to all working on both your 2022 books. I’m particularly interested in your Tortoise book, as we are the parents of an 8 y.o. Russian Tortoise (my son named him Tortellini). He & Tortellini get annoyed by how many people don’t know the difference between a turtle and tortoise, and he insisted we straighten it out by song. We have been working on it for a few months. Maybe your book will help shed some light on the fascinating facts about Torts, with of course, the usual Dev Petty humor.
Well, back to writing the “Turtle or Tortoise” song….got any rhymes for plastron? Carapace? See my challenge? Oy. Thanks for sharing, Dev, it was a great way to end the guest posts.
Thanks Tara for an education of a lifetime, solidifying and expanding the Kidlit community for all, and for instilling lots of hope and anticipation.
Stay well all and keep writing and illustrating. Peace, Annie✌🏼💖🎶🎨📚🌻🎉
January 30, 2022 at 1:23 pm
Natalie Lynn Tanner
DEV: THANK YOU for INSPIRING us to EMBRACE our ” idiosyncratic oddities” in order “shine a light on the human experience” through our writing. Sequin sweater tanks WELCOME–EVEN IF they DON’T match the rest of our outfits!!!
January 30, 2022 at 1:23 pm
Cindy S
Thanks for the tip.
January 30, 2022 at 1:32 pm
Sheri Radovich
Wow, I need to make lists of odd phrases and words that come to me when I am not writing but waiting for traffic, at the dental office, or other times when I am not really focused on a project. What great ideas to just go through my idea folder like deleting items from my closet each season and find something I forgot about. My grandfathers used a lot of odd words to keep from swearing in front of me. I wish I had written them all down but Tara’s lists of words on her site is a good resource as well. I love gobsmacked.
January 30, 2022 at 1:34 pm
Mary McClellan
A big fan of modern Family, I love your Closets, Closets, Closets clip. 🙂 I’m working with a word I thought about the other day, seeing if I can wrap a story around it. Can’t wait to read your new PBs!
January 30, 2022 at 1:34 pm
Mary Beth Rice
Thank you for reminding us to go back into our childhood closets to mine some great ideas, lines, words, happenings….
January 30, 2022 at 1:35 pm
writeknit
Fabulous inspiration today! Not only my stories, but those of my family members…you know who you are and yes, I will write about you!! 🙂
January 30, 2022 at 1:39 pm
kidlitgail
Words, phrases, quirky people are all rushi8ng in! Thank you, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 1:39 pm
Bethanny Parker
OK, you’ve got me intrigued. I’m dying to know what the last word of “Don’t Eat Bees” is.
January 30, 2022 at 1:40 pm
danielledufayet
Don’t eat bees -such great advice! Lol. Seriously, great post -thanks for sharing and congrats!
January 30, 2022 at 1:42 pm
Manju Beth Howard (@ManjuBeth)
Terrific job promoting DON’T EAT BEES! Now I really want to know the word that teases through your book and creates just the perfect ending.
January 30, 2022 at 1:43 pm
mommamoocow
Great advice!
January 30, 2022 at 1:44 pm
Kim A Larson
Love your books, Dev! Congrats on the two up comings; I can’t wait to read them. Thanks for the fun and inspirational post, too.
January 30, 2022 at 1:44 pm
keenanj17
I relate completely to your little sequined sweater analogy. In my closet are two tops with the tags still on them that have been tried on and rejected as many times as some of my submissions. The 30 ideas I have come up with these past 30 days will hopefully get to show their “sassy” in a published book sooner than later when I try them out.
January 30, 2022 at 1:46 pm
René Bartos
Thanks for the inspirational post and congrats on the two new books!
January 30, 2022 at 1:47 pm
Cassie
Thanks for the opportunity!
January 30, 2022 at 1:48 pm
Julie Reich
I have some of those thingamajigs knocking around, waiting to be used. Congrats on your upcoming books!
January 30, 2022 at 1:51 pm
phyllisharris50
I can’t wait to read this book! Thanks for the great inspiration, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 1:51 pm
Barbara Senenman
I do write down words and phrases that I either overhear or just pop into my head. I haven’t thought of stories to go with them yet, but I’m glad I have them written.
January 30, 2022 at 1:52 pm
Diana Marie Linton
I really want to find out what that word is! Thanks, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 1:52 pm
beckylevine
Love this! And can’t wait to see the new book.
January 30, 2022 at 1:52 pm
lynjekowsky
Dev, your metaphor is brilliant. Thank you for inspiring me to search for those “odd little thingamiggies.” Can’t wait to hear what life lessons Chip has to tell us.
January 30, 2022 at 1:54 pm
Danielle Hammelef
I just added Don’t Eat the Bees to my Goodreads and placed holds on the 5 books of yours that my library currently has so I can study them as mentor text. This post is a great reminder to write down words and phrases that may become parts of stories in the future.
January 30, 2022 at 1:57 pm
Kathy Shanahan
Such wonderful advice! Life’s quirky moments so often can be inspiration for a story. Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 1:59 pm
@DekkerMeagan
I love this advice! I love those sequined zingers too! Thank you so much for this great reminder.
January 30, 2022 at 2:00 pm
Jenn
The metaphor is perfect and I do have a few “thingamajiggies” gathering dust in old notebooks. Looking forward to the release of Don’t Eat Bees as I’m every so curious about THE WORD.
January 30, 2022 at 2:02 pm
kathryn hagen
II love the permission to start your story with your own version of the sequined tank top. Thank you, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 2:02 pm
dedradavis03
THIS. This might be the best post of the entire month—a gem (sequin) dangling at the end (of a perfect sweater). Thank you for this post. I have a drawer full of little dangling ideas, and I love the excitement when one POPS our and demands attention.
January 30, 2022 at 2:05 pm
marty
Thank you, Dev. Great way to re-think what to capture in our list of ideas. I am wondering if the 8-hour drive to get yummy bread happened and I’m guessing it was worth it if you went. Can’t wait to read Don’t Eat Bees! Thank you for the generous prizes you are offering. Thanks, Tara, for inviting Dev to post in the Storystorm 2022 forum for ideas.
January 30, 2022 at 2:05 pm
Alexandra
oh gosh, this was the medicine I needed today. I’m often concept driven vs character driven in my ideas and stories, and I’ve been feeling like a square peg in a round hole. I copied down so much of this post so I can read it whenever I need a reminder that somedays I’m just rocking a sparkly-sequined sweater (and I should stop trying to wear it like a hoodie) 🙂 Thank you, Dev!
January 31, 2022 at 2:01 am
Soul Healer 11.11
What is that WORD? I can’t wait to read
‘ Don’t Eat Bees ‘ sounds totally hilarious.
A great kids book is a good read when its about life lessons.. I was a naughty kid and will have to use that well as a source of inspiration too ♡
Are you inspired to write a story about your pet snake Boots?
A good friend of mine his nickname is Boots and he is like a vintage Teddy Bear.
I am feeling inspired yet again..♡
Love Your work!! Thanks for being Awesome.. 💜
January 30, 2022 at 2:08 pm
brontebrown2
I like the line the biggest ideas are simple, waiting for you to see. Thanks for the insight.
January 30, 2022 at 2:12 pm
Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator
I always try to psych my self to go for the sparkles, but end up on much safer ground. Your post encourages me to go for it. Thank you.
January 30, 2022 at 2:12 pm
karenlee
Love the little almost hidden comment to listen to our own vernacular. Thanks!
January 30, 2022 at 2:12 pm
trunkythetree
Thank you for this amazing post and keep wearing your sequins. I had a dog that ate a bee – shame he didn’t read your book first!
January 30, 2022 at 2:12 pm
midfreeman
I felt that sassy, sequin sweater story in my bones. Thank you for articulating it and showing how it can help!
January 30, 2022 at 2:13 pm
Cedar Pruitt
I love that you were able to grab that joke from high school and make art with it later. I love that ideas keep living inside us! This is so inspiring. Thanks for the great post.
January 30, 2022 at 2:13 pm
carolynleillustrations
There are so many great lines to quote in this post, but this is my favorite
“When you stop looking for whole stories and just start seeing the world as concepts and twists, surprise endings, odd moments, you can turn those things into rich, layered stories with wide appeal because they aren’t so specific to one person or their experience.”
January 30, 2022 at 2:14 pm
Virginia Rinkel
Can hardly wait to read about this one. Thank you…
January 30, 2022 at 2:14 pm
Kathryn Powell
This is soooooo gooooood! Thank you.
January 30, 2022 at 2:15 pm
Virginia Rinkel
Can hardly wait for this one. Glad you saved that word!
January 30, 2022 at 2:16 pm
Virginia Rinkel
Can hardly wait for this one!
January 30, 2022 at 2:16 pm
Lori
Love this! Thanks for sharing Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 2:19 pm
jilltatara
Hurray for sequined sweaters and funny thingamiggies that stick with us! Thank you for this post!
January 30, 2022 at 2:23 pm
Stephanie S
Thank you for a fun post! Time to dig through some old writing!
January 30, 2022 at 2:23 pm
georgeandjohanna
I love everything about this so very much!! Except that fact that now I am DYING to know what the line is in your new book! Thank you!
Johanna Peyton
January 30, 2022 at 2:30 pm
Lynn Becker
Thanks for this. It’s fun and liberating to think of writing picture books this way.
January 30, 2022 at 2:35 pm
Lucy Staugler
Dev, I’m busy rummaging in my life-drawer and trying on many items stuck there for long time!
My sequin sweater is an animal print mini skirt!
Gonna wear it to the grocery store and walk in with a swagger!
Thank you for a wonderful post!
Lucy Staugler
January 30, 2022 at 2:36 pm
Erin Cleary (ClearyWriter)
Great post. So excited about your new book!
January 30, 2022 at 2:37 pm
Joy Wieder
I have one of those sequin sweater tank tops too! I guess I’ll have to find an occasion to wear it & turn that into a story nugget 😉
January 30, 2022 at 2:39 pm
Leah Moser
Great post! Thank you for this advice!
January 30, 2022 at 2:42 pm
Jane Heitman Healy
Dev, I have little scraps of paper everywhere containing “odd little conceptual thingamiggies”! You have given me hope that they will take root and grow into something good! Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 2:42 pm
vgraboski61gmailcom
Yes! Thanks for the reminder to write these gems down. Great post. Thanks!
January 30, 2022 at 2:43 pm
Carol Gwin Nelson
I love this idea. Little bits of conversation that can fit into a story. Thanks!
January 30, 2022 at 2:45 pm
Jennifer Phillips
Talk about the ultimate teaser. Can’t wait to read! And such a helpful post about all of those lines, simple ideas and pieces just waiting for the right moment to make a story. Thanks!
January 30, 2022 at 2:47 pm
Jennifer Phillips
What a great teaser. Can’t wait to read your book. And fabulous advice about how those simple lines, ideas and memories can eventually find the right time to help make a story. Thanks!
January 30, 2022 at 2:49 pm
Jennifer Phillips
sorry for the double-post…my computer is misbehaving this morning!
January 30, 2022 at 2:47 pm
Gretchen McLellan
Dev–thanks for a great and inspiring post! Congrats on your coming DON’T EAT BEES! which I will have to read to my pup! So many books have been written because a phrase or word or rhythm won’t leave the writer alone. My own I’M DONE! poured out of me, fully formed, when my muse urged me to finally sit down and write something using the words I’d heard so often in my classroom. CHICKA CHICKA BOOM BOOM was the phrase that catalyzed one of the most brilliant alphabet books of all time. I trust that even if something is in the back of my closet, my brain is working on booking an occasion for me to put it on in style.
January 30, 2022 at 2:48 pm
Natasha Garnett
I absolutely must know what that word is! I’ll be looking for Don’t Eat Bees. Sounds like good advice in any case. For dogs and others.
January 30, 2022 at 2:48 pm
Yaa
Thank for telling us a little bit about new your new book, Don’t Eat Bees (Life Lessons from Chip the dog).
January 30, 2022 at 2:50 pm
Dianne Borowski
When rummaging around in my life drawer/closet I realize they are so similar to my real drawers/closet it’s almost spooky. Everything’s rather a mess, quite unorganized. I am determined to organize all of my drawers/closets. Thanks for the motivating information!
January 30, 2022 at 2:52 pm
Wilma Krause Brucker
Great title: DON’Y EAT BEES
January 30, 2022 at 2:53 pm
Nene
I love reading about the creative process. Thanks for sharing yours! You’re one of the most imaginative writers I know.
January 30, 2022 at 2:53 pm
Jennifer Lu
Very encouraging post, thank you!
Also I have a side question about storystorm I’m not sure where to ask, for the line “ You’re eligible to win if you’re a registered Storystorm participant and you have commented once below.” By “commented once below” do we mean on the post made that day? I was under the impression the whole time that it meant commenting on the first post that would register you and am realizing on almost the last day that I was probably wrong ><
January 30, 2022 at 2:53 pm
Poupette
Great analogy, thanks, and bravo for fitting in that word after so many years! Think I’ll resurrect some moth-balled nuggets and see where that leads…
January 30, 2022 at 2:54 pm
LaurenKerstein
FABULOUS POST! I particularly loved this: “When you stop looking for whole stories and just start seeing the world as concepts and twists, surprise endings, odd moments, you can turn those things into rich, layered stories with wide appeal because they aren’t so specific to one person or their experience.” Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 2:56 pm
Linda Hofke
Nice post, Dev. And you are very clever…you’ve got me wanting to read the book to discover the word.
January 30, 2022 at 3:00 pm
ryanrobertsauthor
Great metaphor! And often how I approach things, as well.
January 30, 2022 at 3:00 pm
Hollie Wolverton
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this post! I love collecting these little ideas, moments, concepts…and occasionally writing them into something! Inspired to dig through them again now. Thanks, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 3:01 pm
Linda Hofke
I’ve tried to post a comment 4 times. I hope it works this time.
Great post, Dev. And you are very clever…you have me wanting to read the book to find out what that word is.
January 30, 2022 at 3:06 pm
pinupcinema
What a fantastic metaphor! Thank you! This was such a fun post
January 30, 2022 at 3:06 pm
sareenmclay
Thank you, loved your post. Really looking forward to reading your book!
January 30, 2022 at 3:06 pm
nrompella
I’m so curious what the word is! I also have a shirt like yours in my closet! LOL. Great idea to look at those simple ideas. Thanks!
January 30, 2022 at 3:10 pm
Donna Marx
Love this “simple” approach to ideas.
January 30, 2022 at 3:14 pm
Heather Lee
I keep a list of funny things I hear in a notes app. I love to mine through it occasionally. Thanks for the great post. I love the concept of DON’T EAT BEES!
January 30, 2022 at 3:22 pm
DaNeil A Olson
Outstanding advice – thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 3:24 pm
Cathy Stefanec Ogren
I’m headed to my closet to shed my COVID outfit and put on that divine dress that has never been worn with hopes of something magical to happen. Great post, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 3:27 pm
Shilpa
Thanks for this. Have to dash now and search my closet.
January 30, 2022 at 3:32 pm
Brittney
Dev! I love the sequin sweater analogy. It’s a good reminder to be bold and take those ideas out for a ride! Otherwise, you will never know where they could take you. Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 3:32 pm
Margot Williams
Great advice- thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 3:33 pm
Jessica Potts
Always love hearing from Dev Petty!!
January 30, 2022 at 3:34 pm
Stephen S. Martin
No Sequin sweater in my closet, unless, of course, Karen, my wife, put it there ! But, my Middle School Students are a consistent source of phrases that I totally don’t understand or misunderstand.
January 30, 2022 at 3:35 pm
Paul Brassard
A timely post for me, Dev. In a conversation just last night, my brother relayed to me the funniest, most precocious comment his two-and-a-half year old grandson made last week. I HAVE to fit it in somewhere! Thanks!
January 30, 2022 at 3:38 pm
Maureen (www.maureenfergus.com)
I like the idea of not worrying about whole story – just finding a funny or compelling hook around which a story can grow
January 30, 2022 at 3:39 pm
mariearden
Plucking forgotten ideas off the shelf, giving them a good shake and a once-over…could be a regular thing to bring them back to life.
January 30, 2022 at 3:41 pm
susanzonca
Dev, thanks for the suggestions. A regular around the dinner table family occurrence popped into mind immediately. Now to see if I can spin a story around it.
January 30, 2022 at 3:41 pm
Lisa Billa
Great advice, thank you! I look forward to your new book, and I’m very curious to find out the word that sparked it!
January 30, 2022 at 3:42 pm
roberta abussi
Let the digging begin! I can’t wait to read your new book.
January 30, 2022 at 3:43 pm
Diane O'Neill
Your books sound amazing, and thanks for the reminder to look at the little things, especially quirks, and to not forget that sequin sweater 🙂 Thanks for the inspiration!
January 30, 2022 at 3:49 pm
Susan Eyerman
Finding an old idea “on the shelf” can be like finding that pair of comfy slippers you forgot you had.
January 30, 2022 at 3:52 pm
Steena Hernandez
Wonderful advice! “Dig around in my life-drawer” really sticks! Thank you so much for sharing! Can’t wait to read DON’T EAT BEES!
January 30, 2022 at 3:57 pm
serenagingoldallen
I’m a big fan of starting stories from just one word or something someone said so this post was right up my alley!
January 30, 2022 at 3:59 pm
Susan Schade
Great advice and prompts me to go back to all those tucked away ideas that never quite got the chance. Pull the trigger! I love it. Thank you. (And congratulations on your new book-can’t wait to read it!)
January 30, 2022 at 3:59 pm
ruthwilson48
Dev, your advice really struck a chord with me! The general topic is something I’ve found to be true since I’ve been writing for children but the way you elaborated on it is so spot on!
January 30, 2022 at 4:03 pm
Judith Snyder
Your suggestion really resonated with me. I do love those sparkling thingamagiggies.
January 30, 2022 at 4:09 pm
jesseannabornemann
This is great, Dev! Thank you! You’ve convinced me I need to use the Notes app on my phone more often to jot observations and overheard bits of humor and wisdom. Usually, I don’t bother writing anything unless it’s a fully developed idea—but your strategy seems much better!
Also, I DON’T WANT TO BE BIG! has been a favorite read around my house for several years. You and Mike make an amazing team!
January 30, 2022 at 4:10 pm
karinlarson
Love this idea and post! Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 4:11 pm
Ellen Leventhal
Well, now I’m pulling out LAST year’s Storystorm to see what I can come up with. Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 4:12 pm
Amy Center Cory
Great ideas, thank you so much!
January 30, 2022 at 4:13 pm
Jay
Thanks for the great post. Thingamiggies here I come!
January 30, 2022 at 4:14 pm
Mary Nelson
Somewhat following your plan, I have started writing down single words or phrases that catch my fancy. Don’t know what I’ll do with them, but they are there for the taking now.
January 30, 2022 at 4:15 pm
Debra Collins
Gold nuggets in the “junk drawer”!
January 30, 2022 at 4:16 pm
avayeechinn
Love your analogy with the sequins sweater! A good reason not to throw out all the outfits I purchased on impulse too! 🤪
January 30, 2022 at 4:18 pm
8catpaws
I’ll eep my flashlight on today to find those hidden in the back of the drawers!
January 30, 2022 at 4:18 pm
Shurie Bocanegra
Thanks for the great ideas. Can’t wait to read your new books 🙂
January 30, 2022 at 4:19 pm
srkckass
Thanks for the fun post! Looking forward to reading your book when it comes out!
January 30, 2022 at 4:22 pm
Aimee Jenkins
LOVE this post! Most of my ideas come from random conversations, words, or sayings. Can’t wait for Don’t Eat Bees!
January 30, 2022 at 4:36 pm
chardixon47
“So go dig around in your life-drawer.” Love this idea. Your post has me rummaging around in the gray matter. I’m looking forward to DON’T EAT THE BEES. Congrats, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 4:39 pm
Tanya Konerman
Ack…you’re killing me with the suspense! But seriously, you had me at Bob Newhart. Great post…thanks!
January 30, 2022 at 4:42 pm
Jeanette
Great advice!
January 30, 2022 at 4:42 pm
staceygustafson
Idea closet?! Fabulous. Thanks for the insight.
January 30, 2022 at 4:46 pm
Maria Marshall
Thanks for the post Dev. I have crammed closet to shift through – and one of those niggling ideas that started begging for attention again. See where it goes. Thanks a lot!
January 30, 2022 at 4:46 pm
Jasmine Ann Smith
Thank you for the ideas!
January 30, 2022 at 4:47 pm
Sue Heavenrich
Oh – what fun! I definitely agree with dog: don’t eat bees. Beetles, yes – they are fine (and crunchy). No sequiny things in my closet, but plenty of odd little conceptual thingamajiggies in my catch-all file drawer.
January 30, 2022 at 4:48 pm
chaunceyelephant
love the “idea closet” image – plan to take some of mine out to “try on” again…
January 30, 2022 at 4:49 pm
laureannawrites
Omgoodness. I had a dog that LOVED eating bees. 😆 Can’t wait to see the line that made your book!
January 30, 2022 at 4:50 pm
Christine Graham
Thanks for a great post. It’s funny how limits can be freeing.
January 30, 2022 at 4:51 pm
Claire A. B. Freeland
Well, you’ve certainly piqued my curiosity. Thank you.
January 30, 2022 at 4:55 pm
Penny Schneider
This is great advise! Now to start reminiscing….
January 30, 2022 at 4:55 pm
eboxer19
I LOVE THIS SO MUCH! As a nonfiction writer who feels a bit plot-challenged and intimidated when it comes to fiction, this totally takes the pressure off. Just one nugget, right?! One spark. One fragment. One sequined sweater! Perfect!
January 30, 2022 at 4:58 pm
Jill Lambert
So much to think about! Thanks for encouraging a focus on snippets, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 4:58 pm
Tory
Thanks for the ideas and the post!
January 30, 2022 at 5:00 pm
Sandy Perlic
What a tease! Now I can’t wait to find out what that perfect line is. And I’m looking forward to browsing my own idea closet and seeing what looks good! Thank you.
January 30, 2022 at 5:02 pm
rosihollinbeck
I have plenty of odd moments in my life. I need to mine them. Thanks for the post.
January 30, 2022 at 5:04 pm
Deborah Ishii
Thank you for the inspiring post! I have many words, phrases and other sequined items that I’ve been saving for “the right time!” You’ve encouraged me to think that maybe that time is now!
January 30, 2022 at 5:04 pm
chrisynthia
I can’t wait to read your book. Dogs in books are my weakness!
January 30, 2022 at 5:17 pm
Dawn Prochovnic
You’ve clearly demonstrated how to write an excellent hook. I can’t wait for your next book to come out. Thanks for the great tips on how to find the little morsels that we can spin into stories.
January 30, 2022 at 5:19 pm
Jojo Kasala
Thank you for such good advice. I feel like I have a million ideas float in and out of my brain all the time but I never know what to do with them…now I will put them in my “closet” and try one on once in a while.
January 30, 2022 at 5:20 pm
marty bellis
I’d like to think all those concepts, moments, twists, etc, that fill my notebooks will eventually prove useful! Can’t wait to read about Chip 🙂
January 30, 2022 at 5:27 pm
Carolyn Kraft
Great advice, thank you! Looking forward to learning what that line is that inspired your story.
January 30, 2022 at 5:30 pm
Janet Frenck Sheets
My day 9 StoryStorm entry is a line. I think it would make a great second sentence in a book. But I’ll have to figure out a plot to go with it!
January 30, 2022 at 5:45 pm
David Filmore
THIS —> “Small, might-be-insignificant-to-others-but-you-write-picture-books, idiosyncratic oddities which shine a light on the human experience.”
Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 5:47 pm
Michele Helsel
Well now I have to read your new book, though I would have any way. Good post.
January 30, 2022 at 5:48 pm
Christine Van Zandt, author of A BRIEF HISTORY OF UNDERPANTS
Thanks for the reminder. Our bee-catching kitten surely needs to read your May book. He has NOT learned his lesson.
January 30, 2022 at 5:54 pm
viviankirkfield
Yup…one word…one phrase…one line…or one red-sequined sweater. All might be perfect catalysts for fabulous stories. Thanks for the inspiration, Dev! And congrats on the books!!!
January 30, 2022 at 5:55 pm
Nancy Ramsey
Great post! Looking forward to reading your new books!
January 30, 2022 at 5:57 pm
Heather Stigall
A LOT of my stories start this way. I have lots of “ideas” that are little snippets of whatnot that I have no idea what to do with, but sometimes these turn into great story ideas. For the ones that haven’t (yet) turned into manuscripts, I hang on to them just in case.
January 30, 2022 at 6:01 pm
Laurie L. Warchol
Now you’ve made me curious… I can’t wait to read your new book. Congrats on your success.
January 30, 2022 at 6:02 pm
Erik Ammon
Forgotten MSs, forgotten ideas. I’ve got a stack of ideas clipped, sitting at the side of my desk. Gotta hit them! Use them! Write them!
January 30, 2022 at 6:03 pm
melig3115
I can’t believe it’s almost over 😦 I’ve had so much fun and can’t already wait for next year. Gonna keep on working and cooking up on some ideas in the meantime 😁
January 30, 2022 at 6:06 pm
Kaye Baillie
Sequined top, kooky ideas, I love it! Have already requested our library to buy ‘Don’t Eat Bees’ . I gotta see that special line your friend said and I love the cover! Chip looks like a winner. Thanks Dev and Tara!!
January 30, 2022 at 6:09 pm
Dannielle Viera
I write down every word or idea that intrigues me, even if I can’t see how it could ever make it into a PB, exactly for the reasons you mention – you just never know what these gems will inspire in the future!
January 30, 2022 at 6:10 pm
Susan Cabael
It’s so true that ideas hang out for a long time. My current WIP came from a one-word idea from PiBoIdMo a decade ago–it took that many years for the right story to develop from that. Worth the wait!
January 30, 2022 at 6:13 pm
Yvette Pais
Dev, what a cool book you have coming out there! I’m curious to read it. Congratulations and thank you for this fun post. Regards, Yvette
January 30, 2022 at 6:16 pm
Angie
Oh, just digging in my life-drawer and thinking of two PB ideas! Thanks, Dev!! Congrats on the new book! Looks great!
January 30, 2022 at 6:24 pm
Andi Chitty
Thank you for sharing part of your process, Dev. I love that this line followed you for so long before finding it’s home. Can’t wait to read your newest book!
January 30, 2022 at 6:25 pm
tinefg
Thank You Dev, it is so great to read this post, each year (during Storystorm, …all year actually) I write down snippets like these, phrases, silly words, more cohesive sentences with fully formed ideas, images that flicker in my mind –they flow so freely sometimes that I keep asking myself if I’m doing this right. This is exactly how I feel, tucking them away to put together the perfect outfit! I look forward to reading your “Don’t Eat Bees” (yes you’ve piqued my curiosity).
January 30, 2022 at 6:25 pm
NC Karuzis
I have an outfit like that in my closet, too. An idea just popped up during a conversation with a friend. You spurred me to write down. I love your new book title – I’ll be looking for it this spring. My dogs could use that advice.
January 30, 2022 at 6:32 pm
Chayala Nachum
That comment about ideas often being simple rather than elaborate is so true! Also, looking at the cover of Don’t Eat The Bees on this page, and it keeps making me smile!
January 30, 2022 at 6:37 pm
Patricia B. Ellson
Thanks for this – heading to my OLD notebooks for an overdue look/see!
January 30, 2022 at 6:39 pm
Kris Tarantino
I love how you have an idea drawer for any and every little thing…and let it sit over time…one line…one word…
January 30, 2022 at 6:39 pm
mimisheawrites
Great idea!
January 30, 2022 at 6:40 pm
Lynn Baldwin
Great post! I had to stop mid-way through to write down a phrase that I might be able to one day build a story around. Thanks, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 6:44 pm
cbcole
I also think in single words or lines. I once wrote a story based on a line for the very ending and had to come up with a story that would get me to that ending.
January 30, 2022 at 6:52 pm
Chiara Beth Colombi (@ChiaraBColombi)
This article resonates with me so much and the ways in which my best stories typically come about. That oddity I notice in the middle of my day-to-day. Love it, and love your books! Thank you, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 6:53 pm
angelapadron
Thank you for sharing your insight.
January 30, 2022 at 6:56 pm
bgonsar
Excellent ideas Dev! Loves reading this.
January 30, 2022 at 6:56 pm
semorber80
Adore this prompt & exercise! We all have so many unique experiences in life and have met such varied individuals (eccentric, reserved, loud & unabashed, shy & careful, etc)… there’s truly so much to mine. Can’t wait to check out your books with my own kids! 👏
January 30, 2022 at 6:57 pm
stephaniemstories
Great advice. Congrats on the two new books
January 30, 2022 at 7:00 pm
Elizabeth W Saba
Thanks Dev. So fun and always funny.
January 30, 2022 at 7:05 pm
triciahinely
I can relate to the closet analogy. I have hung up a few good lines in my closet. Great tip. Thank you for giving a visual to help me remember!
January 30, 2022 at 7:09 pm
jillburns7
Thanks, Dev! This is brilliant! I’m heading to my closet now! Great post!
January 30, 2022 at 7:09 pm
K. Yin
Simple is often best. Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 7:11 pm
Carol Gordon Ekster
After reading this post, I immediately pulled an image out of my life drawer and added it the this year’s list. Thanks for the inspiration, Dev. And thanks for bringing your awesome books into the world.
January 30, 2022 at 7:13 pm
Julie Murphy
I love this idea. Thank you! I have a phrase waiting to be the perfect ending for a pb.
January 30, 2022 at 7:14 pm
seschipper
Thank you, Dev and Tara. Looking forward to reading your new books! 🙂
January 30, 2022 at 7:15 pm
Buffy Silverman
Now we all have to read Don’t Eat Bees to discover the magic word!
January 30, 2022 at 7:30 pm
lee77094
An interesting concept — a story built around a word. I can do that!
January 30, 2022 at 7:31 pm
Peggy Dobbs
It’s so true how ideas hang around. Thanks for the great suggestions of how to discover more.
January 30, 2022 at 7:37 pm
sarahsteinberg
Love this. I’ve definitely had stories come from just a word or image… I have half a novel that’s based on a couple of signs I saw on a highway and never found again… 🙂
January 30, 2022 at 7:41 pm
Mary Warth
Thank you Deb! I appreciate the freedom to appreciate restriction.
January 30, 2022 at 7:54 pm
Jenny Boyd
Two observations: 1. I can’t wait to see your book Don’t Eat Bees. 2. Boots is a great name for a snake.
January 30, 2022 at 8:07 pm
Dani Duck
Such a great post Deb! I’m going to be digging through all those ideas!
January 30, 2022 at 8:11 pm
Bonnie Kelso
Thank you, Dev! I’ll try to come up with a good one-worder today. 🙂 Congrats on your new book. It looks super cute!
January 30, 2022 at 8:13 pm
Ashley Nicole Parker
What creativity, and what a cute book!
January 30, 2022 at 8:16 pm
Janet Smart
Words! I’ll start searching for some good ones.
January 30, 2022 at 8:29 pm
Claire Blumenfeld
I love this. One word can inspire an entire story. I cannot wait to find out what inspired “Don’t Eat Bees”
January 30, 2022 at 8:40 pm
Mina
Great post! So excited about your new book Dev 🙂
January 30, 2022 at 8:42 pm
steveheron
odd little conceptual thingamiggies – priceless!!
January 30, 2022 at 8:47 pm
Jolie Stekly
Looking forward to discovering that last word at the end of the book. Great reminder.
January 30, 2022 at 8:57 pm
riverwoods21
Congratulations on your new book. Love the title. Thanks for sharing.
January 30, 2022 at 8:58 pm
Krista Maxwell
Love the metaphor!
January 30, 2022 at 8:58 pm
Nancy Furstinger
Don’t Eat Bees–tell it to my dog Rosy! Looking forward to reading, especially the last word.
January 30, 2022 at 8:59 pm
Judy Sobanski
I love how simple words, phrases, a title or thingamiggie can become a whole concept that can become a story! Thanks for sharing your closet theory!
January 30, 2022 at 9:01 pm
Sophie Furman✨Illustrator (@SophieFurmanArt)
Thank you, Dev, for the amazing post! I’ve always kept a list of silly things that me and loved ones say to each other, and it didn’t occur to me till now to dip into it for a story idea! Yay to more stories!
January 30, 2022 at 9:03 pm
Jennie H
Love this post. It’s so true. Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 9:04 pm
Julia Lyon
I love this idea of pieces of a story coming to you before the story materializes in its entirety. Thank you for the inspiration!
January 30, 2022 at 9:08 pm
loricevans
Oh yes, I have a few of those scary pieces in my closet. One of them even has bees on it. I hear funny things all the time and forget to write them down. I need to start using my phone for that right away! Thanks for sharing your wit and wisdom.
January 30, 2022 at 9:08 pm
Danni Schloss
Thank you for a fun, relatable approach to spark ideas and build a framework for a story. Great post 🙂
January 30, 2022 at 9:11 pm
Marcia Berneger
I totally get it. I just came upon a word that is screaming at me to write its story. I may even do that one day. 😊
January 30, 2022 at 9:12 pm
Lonna Hill
Congrats on your new book! I love the title and can’t wait to read it! Also, thanks for an inspiring post!
January 30, 2022 at 9:15 pm
Deb McGarvey
Love this – “boundaries and edges create the best work.” Thank you for a great post!
January 30, 2022 at 9:17 pm
bookfish1
Good Stuff Thanks
January 30, 2022 at 9:17 pm
Kim Gutierrez
Thx for this! It’s all about the simple stories around us and recognizing them as potential! The world is a story! Can’t wait to see your new book!
January 30, 2022 at 9:20 pm
growingbookbybook
Yes! I can’t wait to read your new book.
January 30, 2022 at 9:21 pm
Sarah Meade
Love the closet idea and looking for those special details that can become stories. Thanks for this helpful post, Dev!
January 30, 2022 at 9:21 pm
nicolesalterbraun
Thanks, Dev! Now I’m dying to know what that word is!
January 30, 2022 at 9:22 pm
claudine108
Dev, it is so true that ideas can come from anywhere! Congratulations on your success!
January 30, 2022 at 9:24 pm
Hilary Margitich
Ok…this is my favorite Storystorm piece so far this month. Dev, you rock. I am now checking all of your books out of my library.
January 30, 2022 at 9:25 pm
Sara Ackerman
Ooooh, I love this! I have an idea that’s been bouncing around my head for ages and it might be time for it to come out.
January 30, 2022 at 9:35 pm
thelogonauts
As if I wasn’t already excited about your new book … ! Love this idea. Really goofy things cropping up …
January 30, 2022 at 9:35 pm
ellen seal ❄️ (@ellenseal_art)
Superb. It’s kinda magical how the brain can make unconscious decisions just by nagging you with the same little thought over and over. Thanks for reminding me to listen to my brain!
January 30, 2022 at 9:35 pm
debbiearnn
I have a clever little idea that I can’t seem to work into a story right now…gonna let it roll around in my brain a bit and see what happens. thanks!
January 30, 2022 at 9:38 pm
Tonnye Fletcher
Well, Dev, you little minx! That was quite a little cliffhanger you left us on! So smart. . . ;-). You know we’re ALL going to have to read now to find your one word inspy. . . Great tips! Looking for those precious little words, phrases, fragments of story. Those are often my best inspirations. I have a few waiting for their moment in the spotlight, and I’ll be on the lookout for more, more, more! Thanks so much! Can’t wait for the bees. . .
January 30, 2022 at 9:47 pm
Saba Negash
I have so many notebooks with ideas and snippets of ideas, i think it is time to dust them off and get to rummaging 🙂
January 30, 2022 at 9:47 pm
Aly Kenna
Thanks Dev for a great post. Funny thing about sequined sweaters, they seem to mutate and multiply in closets.
January 30, 2022 at 9:49 pm
Aly Kenna
Thank you Dev for a great post. Funny thing about sequined sweaters. They seem to mutate and multiply in closets.
January 30, 2022 at 9:49 pm
Lisa Gaines
Love this! Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 9:53 pm
Ashley Bankhead
This post was awesome! I’m ready to go dig in my life-drawer, and find my sequin sweater!
January 30, 2022 at 9:54 pm
Amy Mucci
Great advice! I’m definitely learning that simple ideas are often better. And I’m very curious about that line!
January 30, 2022 at 9:55 pm
Elena Horne
Now I’m wondering what the joke was!
January 30, 2022 at 9:56 pm
Pam
HUGE fan and thank you for this inspiring post. Can’t wait to read Eat the Bees (and see what word it is!)
January 30, 2022 at 9:58 pm
Trine Grillo
I’ve got that sassy, sequin sweater tank top and the “odd” word. HA! Thanks.
January 30, 2022 at 10:02 pm
Marlena Leach
Thanks for the tip. I will look in my one-liner drawer and see what I can pull out!
January 30, 2022 at 10:02 pm
Susan Claus
Off to the closet to rummage for thingamiggies!
January 30, 2022 at 10:04 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
I look forward to reading DON’T EAT THE BEES! I want to discover the word that inspired you to write the story.
Suzy Leopold
January 30, 2022 at 10:08 pm
Brinton Culp
I’m waiting to work in some lines stored in the brain closet. Thanks for the sequined post!
January 30, 2022 at 10:10 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
Looking forward to your upcoming releases! I’ve loved all of your books! Thanks for the inspiration!
January 30, 2022 at 10:11 pm
Rebecca Ralfe
Sounds hilarious! Love a funny PB.
January 30, 2022 at 10:14 pm
Rebecca Guzinski
The wheels are in motion from this fabulous post! You also made me laugh out loud a few times.
January 30, 2022 at 10:14 pm
Helen Lys
Thank you for that inspiring post!
January 30, 2022 at 10:20 pm
Jess Burbank (@jburbank)
I love this post. It highlights what I love most about living a creative/maker life: being alert and aware and awakened to every morsel and moment of being and then getting to relive those moments when you reuse them. Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 10:39 pm
Susan Jobsky
I have a pocketbook sized notebook I carry with me all the time; it’s filled with zotz and one liners that make me laugh, or pull my eyebrows together, or my nose twitch. It’s filled with doodles and squiggles. Maybe I’ll make something from them today, or tomorrow, or never. But I have them in my book; they’re waiting for their moment to shine.
January 30, 2022 at 10:39 pm
Charlotte Offsay
Brilliant post, love it from beginning to end. Now I’m off to find that sweater…
January 30, 2022 at 10:40 pm
Marcia Dalphin Williams
Thanks for posting Dev. I have a word and phrase notebook in hiding too. Waiting for the right inspiration. I’m also very curious to know what the word is that inspired your book. Congratulations.
January 30, 2022 at 10:40 pm
lorishapiro
Thank you for this great post. But you know it’s great from all of these positive comments-lol. I’m so glad you reminded me to not focus on a whole story but possibly a concept, twists etc, The best reminder for me is to pay attention to funny happenings and misunderstandings, now and from my childhood. I tend to laugh them off and then they’re gone Well, not anymore! Thanks so much! And I am really looking forward to your new books-can’t wait!
January 30, 2022 at 10:41 pm
claudia sloan
I’ll start looking out more for these on may daily activities, interesting! thank you! 🙂
January 30, 2022 at 10:50 pm
deniseaengle
Awesome post! Thanks!
January 30, 2022 at 10:52 pm
Lindsey Aduskevich
Thanks Dev! I love those phrases and words that sit with us until a story comes. Your upcoming book looks fabulous!! Can’t wait to read it and find out that word.
January 30, 2022 at 10:55 pm
Judy Bradbury
Looking forward to reading your upcoming book. Thanks for sharing!
January 30, 2022 at 11:17 pm
kirstenbockblog
What a fantastic metaphor! I’m off to search my closet right now!
January 30, 2022 at 11:19 pm
Lindsay
Thanks Dev! Love the metaphor. I’ve got a few sparkly gems hidden away, waiting for the right time!
January 30, 2022 at 11:22 pm
hfr2006
Excellent post and so inspiring and energizing! Can’t wait to read your book!
January 30, 2022 at 11:22 pm
allisonrozo
So awesome Dev! Loved this! I’m going to try on my garish glimmering gold 1970s puffed sleeved dress on again and see what happens! 🤣👏💖✨
January 30, 2022 at 11:39 pm
amievc
Thanks for your fantastic post–it made me smile–and think more about those quirky moments!
January 30, 2022 at 11:50 pm
setwiggs
I loved I don’t Want to be a Frog so much! and can’t wait to read your 2 new book. I’ll start recording my funny stories form actual life!
January 30, 2022 at 11:53 pm
tinamcho
Thanks for this tip about ideas, Dev. Congrats on your new books!
January 30, 2022 at 11:54 pm
Sue Cottrill (@secottrill)
Loved your post! Thanks for sharing. Can’t wait to read “Don’t Eat Bees..” to find out what the “word” is.
January 30, 2022 at 11:56 pm
Charles Trevino
The book’s title is a winner!
There’ll be a buzzzzzz about it!
January 30, 2022 at 11:58 pm
Kathy Crable
Thank you so much for this post! I think the same way and needed a little encouragement!
January 30, 2022 at 11:58 pm
Sarah Lontine
Thanks for making me laugh and sparking some ideas, too!
January 30, 2022 at 11:59 pm
deniseganley
It’s the little thingamiggies for me too. Don’t Eat Bees sounds great. Thanks for your post. BTW, your website is super cute.
January 31, 2022 at 12:01 am
Amy Newbold
Thanks so much for this post. I’m going to look for those little oddities!
January 31, 2022 at 12:08 am
Connie Van Horn
Thank you! Love these ideas! Don’t Eat Bees title alone really grabs you!! Cannot wait to read it!!
January 31, 2022 at 12:17 am
Liz Godfrey
Love this! So many quirky things occur every single day. Thanks for shining the light!
January 31, 2022 at 12:18 am
Linda Sakai
Great reminders for mining ideas. Thanks
January 31, 2022 at 12:32 am
Tammi Beck
Thank you for your time and tips! Best
January 31, 2022 at 12:33 am
Jessica Coupé
Thanks for the great tips!
January 31, 2022 at 12:37 am
sharongiltrow
I know I’m going to love Don’t Eat Bees :-). Thanks for showing us how quirky ideas can make stories.
January 31, 2022 at 12:39 am
Christine M Irvin
Great advice!
January 31, 2022 at 12:42 am
Lisa
Great post; I completely agree with the idea that simple can lead to better in writing. Something I need to remind myself of time and time again!
Can’t wait to read ‘Don’t Eat Bees.’ I need to know what that word is 🙂
January 31, 2022 at 12:48 am
Debi Novotny
I think your advice challenges all writers to be keen observers and active listeners! Thanks and congrats on your new book, it looks amazing!
January 31, 2022 at 1:02 am
JAYNE TOMAN
Thank you for sharing! I am already looking forward to your new book – I loved your frog series 🙂
January 31, 2022 at 1:06 am
Marie Chan
I like your fun idea to create a story from an interesting phrase or timely word. Thanks for sharing.
January 31, 2022 at 1:23 am
Amy Leskowski
I loved this post! Excited to read your new book.
January 31, 2022 at 1:30 am
Debbie Meneses
Dev, I am starting to see the world as concepts and twists, surprise endings, odd moments. I am finding humor in those twists that at one point were upsetting. My Storystorm idea list can now be finished. Thank you so much for your idea!
January 31, 2022 at 1:35 am
Elayne
This is my dream prize – chatting with Dev and a copy of her new book? Too perfect. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, and can’t wait to read the latest!
January 31, 2022 at 2:11 am
kbottagaro
I love the metaphor of an idea closet. My stories often come from fragments, and it can be both challenging and rewarding to build a story around these fragments. I need to get to work organizing my idea closet!
January 31, 2022 at 2:24 am
Genevieve Gorback
Thanks for the inspiration to dig around in my life-drawer! This was fantastic!
January 31, 2022 at 2:25 am
Jeannette Suhr
Thank you, Dev, for your suggestions to stay aware of those little things that could become a story. I will look for them in my past and keep an eye out for them as I move forward in my writing career. I look forward to reading your books. The titles alone pull me in.
Happy New Year and I wish you continued success with your writing.
January 31, 2022 at 3:04 am
Thelia Hutchinson
Thank you Dev. Any inspiration is good inspiration.
January 31, 2022 at 3:08 am
Brandon Rodriguez
Looking at people on the tv, as well as in your own life, are definitely great forms of inspiration. A crazy uncle or snobby co-worker can easily fit into a story. Even pulling out old clothes can lead to another idea. I love this post. It makes you take time to observe everything and everyone in your life. Thanks
January 31, 2022 at 3:22 am
Rita Jane
Thanks for the reminder to play with a silly rhyme about an astronaut that keeps coming back to me. Once again, today wasn’t its day to find a place in a story, but it’s a source of great amusement!
January 31, 2022 at 3:51 am
meilin418
Love the idea of working from the edges or corners and find our way into a story. It is so freeing sometimes to not have to look for whole stories and that freedom may just spark something unexpected… Thank you for a great post!
January 31, 2022 at 4:26 am
Catherine Friess
I love the closet analogy Dev . I have several ‘sequins’ in my drawer that come out periodically but aren’t ready to be written yet!
January 31, 2022 at 5:00 am
Elizabeth
I have my own idea closet with words, phrases and other strange and weird things. Just reading these posts for the month should suggest a few to work with. Thanks for the suggetion of going to our own idea closets for inspiration. Great post, Dev. I have to read your book to find out what the word is. .. .
January 31, 2022 at 5:08 am
bonnie fireUrchin ~ pb illustration & writing
I’m trying to recall if I ever began my stories with a line. I know I’ve done story starter lines. I know I’ve found lines after knowing a character that became their traits and quirks. I’m almost certain in this Storystorm I wrote a line that triggered a draft – I guess I’m too tired right now. But I’m definitely going to try to keep this idea on the front burner, because it feels alive and an important part of character building. Thanks for sharing this in a way that really made me feel it.
January 31, 2022 at 5:13 am
Shan
I keep a book of funny things my children have said. Actually, I started it when my twin brothers were small, so there’s a lot of stuff in there. My husband also comes up with gems – especially when he doesn’t mean to!
January 31, 2022 at 5:14 am
linafeli
Many stories emerge from lines, images or simply just a catchphrase. Thank you!
January 31, 2022 at 6:16 am
Tamara Rittershaus
This is so important! I have so many character ideas or setting ideas jotted down. I just need to figure out how to mash them up! Thanks for a lovely post.
January 31, 2022 at 7:13 am
Ellen Slanczka
Let the idea/concept lead and follow you. Love it–and “Boots” the snake.
January 31, 2022 at 7:22 am
🇵🇪 Sara Fajardo 🇺🇸 (@safajarwrites)
Kids are the perfect source of inspiration for this approach. Than you!
January 31, 2022 at 7:25 am
readmybook2002
All it takes is one line to spark a story idea. That’s why I listen to kids when I go shopping or at parties. As Art Linkletter once said,”Kids say the darndest things.”
January 31, 2022 at 7:58 am
Joy Pitcairn
I’m so curious what this word is!
January 31, 2022 at 8:01 am
Mary Zychowicz
Great suggestions for mining ideas. I was half awake this morning when a made up word popped into my head and an image was created and I thought, ooh, picture book idea! No idea at all what the story will be but your post inspired me . Thanks for sharing. Can’t wait to read your new books!
January 31, 2022 at 8:02 am
Deborah Foster
Your new book looks hilarious! Can’t wait to read it and find out what that magic word was!
January 31, 2022 at 8:41 am
Kelly Vavala
HaHa! You have us all curious as to what that word is! Great marketing! What a fun post! And we al, have that sequins sweater hanging in our closet or something similar to identify with! Very inspirational post! Thank you!
January 31, 2022 at 9:00 am
Freda Lewkowicz
Thank you for this suspenseful post. So what’s the word??????
January 31, 2022 at 9:13 am
Jennifer Weisse
Great advice. Thank you. Congratulations on your upcoming book, it looks wonderful!
January 31, 2022 at 9:17 am
Azra Rahim
The best things in life, I have learned from a wise dog 🙂
January 31, 2022 at 9:17 am
Susanne Leach
In seventh grade, on a trip to the mall with a friend, I bought a very dramatic red outfit. Ruffles around the deep-V neckline, sparkly buttons. Mom made me take it back the next day 😦 it was perfect too.
January 31, 2022 at 9:20 am
M.R. Street
This is great advice! I am intrigued about your snake named Boots. Is that a reference to Toy Story (“There’s a snake in my boot!”) or a jab at the poor snake who has no feet to put in his boots? Either way, I’m sure there’s a great story behind it!
January 31, 2022 at 9:22 am
Donna Rossman
“When you stop looking for whole stories and just start seeing the world as concepts and twists, surprise endings, odd moments…” — Thank you!
Congratulations, Can’t wait to read DON’T EAT BEES!
January 31, 2022 at 9:30 am
Joan Swanson
Thank you, i wish I could put humor in my stories the way other writers do. I hate slapstick and enjoy real humor, but I can’t seem to write it. Thank you so much for your ideas 🙂
January 31, 2022 at 9:31 am
Beth Elliott
This is a great post – as energetic as your books, and I love the sequin top analogy. Can’t wait for your next book with MB!
January 31, 2022 at 9:33 am
cindyjohnson2013
Thanks so much for this, Dev! And I think naming a snake Boots is hilarious!
January 31, 2022 at 9:52 am
Aimee Satterlee
Quirks and idiosyncrasies are my jam. Love this and can’t wait to read DON’T EAT BEES! I can’t wait to find out what single word inspired this one!
January 31, 2022 at 9:59 am
Emily Bertholf
I love the idea closet metaphor — and now I have to read your book to find the word! Also, I think sequined is a great place to start idea playing today. I feel sparklier already!
January 31, 2022 at 10:06 am
pbbeckyk
Thank you, Dev! If it’s possible to explicitly teach the true magic of picture books you have absolutely done so with this article. I can’t wait to read Don’t Eat Bees!
January 31, 2022 at 10:14 am
Charles Richardson
I probably shouldn’t write this but when you wrote “quirks” a zillion ideas popped in my head about my wife.
January 31, 2022 at 10:27 am
Dawn Mitchell
Looking into my idea closet to find some conceptual thingamiggies. Love it!
January 31, 2022 at 10:36 am
Stephanie Owen
It is the little things that cause the best sparks of imagination.
January 31, 2022 at 10:48 am
Hélène Sabourin
I wonder what the word is.
January 31, 2022 at 10:50 am
Jennifer Roman
This is probably my favorite post from this year.
January 31, 2022 at 10:54 am
heathercmorris
Thank you so much, Dev! This was a great post.
January 31, 2022 at 10:57 am
Sharon Coffey
Dev, thank you for this fresh take on mining for ideas. It’s so true that sometimes the little things speak the loudest.
January 31, 2022 at 10:57 am
Ana Archi
I like the idea that my next book might be just like a new old favorite sequin sweater.
January 31, 2022 at 11:14 am
Jennifer Rathe
Wonderful ideas. Time to dig through the closet. Can’t wait to read your next book!
January 31, 2022 at 11:14 am
Daryl Gottier
Our family keeps a list of ridiculous statements we’ve made…I need to revisit it!! And I can’t wait to read about bees!
January 31, 2022 at 11:18 am
Mary
Dev, thanks for contributing to StoryStorm! Great ideas!
January 31, 2022 at 11:26 am
marshaelyn
Dev, Your fresh, honest, robust post woke up my brain this morning. Thank you for reminding us that all ideas are “good ones” if given time. And don’t stress over the “wait time,” or “stew time.” My “Life-Drawer” is packed and overflowing with odd moments on index cards. You’ve inspired me to unpack that drawer and see if anything “fits.” Sending you energy and joy for your continued success…
January 31, 2022 at 11:33 am
Angela De Groot
This is a BRILLIANT post Dev, thank you. Writing down little snippets is how I do StoryStorm – a phrase, a title, a word, a list. Then later, I go rummaging through them to see if they’ll grow into something more.
January 31, 2022 at 11:36 am
Rebekah
OH now I have to know what that word is! Congrats on your new book.
January 31, 2022 at 11:37 am
Tamisha Williams
I appreciate the reminder that we don’t need to just be looking out for story ideas. But collecting the character, moment, and twist ideas as well.
January 31, 2022 at 11:37 am
cravevsworld
Sequins belong everywhere. Thank you, Dev!
January 31, 2022 at 11:38 am
Annette Martin
Thank you for the reminder that we sometimes pass over the small gems we need. Perfect! 🙂 Congratulations on your books!
January 31, 2022 at 11:39 am
colleenrkosinski
You need to wear that sequin top to your next conference!
January 31, 2022 at 11:43 am
Crystal ES
Thanks for this post! I’ll revisit some of those childhood stories that run on repeat in my household. I’ll also contemplate the random funny moments from years past that stick firmly in my mind. Also… I intend to peer into closets for ideas!:)
January 31, 2022 at 11:45 am
Clement, Laura
A fantastic post. Letting those ideas sit is hard, but so worth it when the right time/situation presents, so true.
January 31, 2022 at 11:47 am
Tootie Nienow
Love your books! Don’t eat bees sounds adorable.
January 31, 2022 at 12:01 pm
Brian Burak
Wow – what an incredibly helpful post. Thank you, Dev!
January 31, 2022 at 12:07 pm
greengirlblueplanet
Great approach!
January 31, 2022 at 12:11 pm
Kristy Nuttall
Thanks for this brilliant post! I love how you said, “Sometimes the biggest ideas aren’t elaborate, they’re simple—because those simple things can reflect bigger ideas about how we process the world, our inclinations, our conflicts.”
January 31, 2022 at 12:13 pm
susaninez0905
Thanks Dev for a great post! Lots of ideas for inspiration. Can’t wait for the new book and the word! 🙂
January 31, 2022 at 12:16 pm
Joanne Roberts
There are some great sound bites in here. Thanks for the inspiration and three promising story seeds.
January 31, 2022 at 12:23 pm
Sylvia Mary Grech
Thanks for your ideas.
January 31, 2022 at 12:27 pm
Debbi G
Thanks for the inspiration & idea to shop in our idea closet. Hoping to find some great idea fragments in there for my last Storystorm idea.
January 31, 2022 at 12:36 pm
Cathy Lentes
Don’t eat bees…great life advice. And I do find a word or phrase often gets me started. Just this morning, at school, I mumbled to myself as my day was starting poorly: ah! Forgot my keys. Spilled my tea. And my picture book mind took note of the possibilities.
Best of luck with your books!
January 31, 2022 at 12:37 pm
Maria
Oh, that’s absolutely the bees’ knees. Get it? XD
Thanks for the inspiration. I feel inspired by so many things in my life, especially things my children say. There are many ideas swirling in my idea closet, with more written down in my notebook, journal and computer folders. Now, on to rifling through them to find those that would work for PBs ❤
January 31, 2022 at 12:43 pm
Wendy Greenley
Two new ideas! Thank you, Dev. Your newest book looks adorable (why is May SO far away!).
January 31, 2022 at 12:48 pm
Lynn Greenway
Thanks for sharing! I may not own a sequin sweater, but I sure do have a lot of story ideas that are sitting in the back of the closet.
January 31, 2022 at 12:50 pm
aidantalkin
Fantastic reminder to tap into our own lives, and drawers of humour! So glad to see your humour again paired with Mike’s – can’t wait!!
January 31, 2022 at 1:04 pm
Laura De La Cruz
Thanks, Dev for the inspiration.
January 31, 2022 at 1:06 pm
Sara Weingartner (@SJWeingartner)
Thanks for your inspiration. Can’t wait to read your book. I want to know the one word!! 🙂
January 31, 2022 at 1:07 pm
Heidi Chupp
Oh this is wonderful; thank you, Dev!
January 31, 2022 at 1:14 pm
tarashiroff
Just when you think Dev couldn’t be any cooler, here she goes being awesome. Thanks for the chance to sneak into your idea closet.
January 31, 2022 at 1:16 pm
annettepimentel
Thanks!
January 31, 2022 at 1:24 pm
Celeste Turner
Thank you Dev for sending me to my idea closet. I want to know Chips advice on Bees. Looking forward to the book birthday.
January 31, 2022 at 1:25 pm
Melissa Hastings
Let’s go shopping! Thank you.
January 31, 2022 at 1:26 pm
Bettie Boswell
Thanks for sharing your story about that one word…
January 31, 2022 at 1:31 pm
Hanna Geshelin
Amazing ideas! Thanks for sharing them!
January 31, 2022 at 1:37 pm
tabithasimswrites
Loved your post, Dev! Can’t wait to read Don’t Eat Bees!
January 31, 2022 at 1:44 pm
Terri Sabol
“Sometimes a story idea is just a line. It’s not a title or a character. It’s not about friendship or bravery or anything specific. It’s a line, a word, a mechanism, a perfect pause in response to a visual gag.” Love this! Thanks for sharing, Dev!
January 31, 2022 at 1:50 pm
Gabi Snyder
Thanks for this fantastic advice, Dev. And my dog has a terrible bee-eating habit. Can’t wait for DON’T EAT BEES!
January 31, 2022 at 1:50 pm
Linda Bozzo
I’ll be looking through my closet for any unworn sweaters. Thanks for sharing your story.
January 31, 2022 at 2:04 pm
Melanie Ellsworth
Absolutely! How perfectly said, Dev! Small moments do “shine a light on the human experience,” and it’s these almost throw-away lines that most often inspire me to come up with a story.
January 31, 2022 at 2:06 pm
Nicole Loos Miller
Can’t wait to read this book! This also inspired me to start writing down the random things my kids say (a gold mine!!!!).
January 31, 2022 at 2:09 pm
Abby Wooldridge
This is such an awesome post, Dev! Thanks for sharing! Congratulations on your new book. It looks hilarious, and I can’t wait to read it! 🙂
January 31, 2022 at 2:12 pm
michelerietz
I think we’ve all bought the “perfect” item of clothing and then let dust gather as we never wear it! 🙂 Thanks for turning your sweater into a great metaphor. I’ll remember it for a long time and I’ll be on the lookout for those ideas that may be tucked away, gather their own dust.
Congrats on your picture books.
January 31, 2022 at 2:13 pm
Christine Pinto
Can’t wait to read Don’t Eat Bees! I love “idiosyncratic oddities which shine light on the human experience”. You got me thinking deeply about what it is to be human and how we, as picture book writers, are shining that light. thank you!
January 31, 2022 at 2:22 pm
Jaime Petrucci
I love this idea, drawing from simple ideas or experiences. Thank you! Looking forward to reading your books!
January 31, 2022 at 2:34 pm
storycatcherpublishing
The idea for my young adult fantasy novel, LUNADAR: Homeward Bound, came from a single picture of a pirate ship. One look at that ship and a 400-page novel unfurled like its own sails…;-)
Great post!
Donna L Martin
January 31, 2022 at 2:44 pm
laurelneme
Love the idea of shopping in your own idea closet!
January 31, 2022 at 2:45 pm
Bethany Walker (@bookshelfofbeth)
Love this and dying to know what the word is!
January 31, 2022 at 2:59 pm
Suzy Grossman
Yes! The ideas float around like balloons…..need to grab them before they drift away like clouds…..woah……there’s a story right there….I’d better make a note
January 31, 2022 at 3:03 pm
Marla Yablon
And this is what Storystorm is all about!
January 31, 2022 at 3:16 pm
flinn321
great idea! and your book looks adorable.
January 31, 2022 at 3:19 pm
Lisa S Thompson
Such an inspiring post! So interesting — I also tend to carry words/phrases/ideas around for a long time, along with some of those clothing items that adorn my closet, but never me. Can’t wait to find out that word in your upcoming book!
January 31, 2022 at 3:23 pm
Micki Ginsberg
Loved your post,Dev. I have an unworn sequin sweater too!
January 31, 2022 at 3:32 pm
Searra Simpson
Dev, great article. Thanks so much.
January 31, 2022 at 3:34 pm
Darcee Freier
With all the buildup, I can’t wait to read, DON’T EAT BEES. May sounds so far away! Congrats! And thanks for the tips.
January 31, 2022 at 3:41 pm
allyenz
Love this! Starting with plot generally doesn’t work well for me, so the idea that I can take just a little fragment of something and write a story around that is very liberating! Shining a light on the human experience is always a lovely thing! I would love to write a book from a dog’s POV, so am looking forward to reading yours!
January 31, 2022 at 3:49 pm
Dena Davis
Brilliant advice! I would love to hear more about how you bridge from concept to story. I will pay more attention to the odd moments and life twists and write them down.
January 31, 2022 at 3:52 pm
Julie Durr
Thank you!
January 31, 2022 at 4:05 pm
Eva NMN Felder
Dev, I love your metaphor.
I will start looking for THINGAMIGGIES in forgotten boxes. I am a teacher, so I have tons of them. I will think daily about the mirror, and see the tiny idea fragments just dancing like crazy with the immature adult.
Thank you for your inspiring post. Good luck with your upcoming books.
January 31, 2022 at 4:09 pm
ritaborg
Thank you for these wonderful ideas. You can find ideas everywhere, still looking
January 31, 2022 at 4:13 pm
TonyaAnn Pember
I was already planning to weed out my file cabinet, it’s going to take longer now but I’m already jotting down ideas in my idea catcher. Thanks
January 31, 2022 at 4:18 pm
ashleehashman
Love this, Dev!!
January 31, 2022 at 4:20 pm
Meghan Downs
Love this!! Thank you so much for such a wonderful post!
January 31, 2022 at 4:24 pm
Rebecca Van Slyke
Hey! We’re illustrator buddies! Mike Bolt did my book Good Night, Alligator!
Isn’t he the greatest?
And speaking of greatest, these are some pretty great ideas, too. Thanks!
Pushing on to tomorrow!
January 31, 2022 at 4:28 pm
goodreadswithronna
Now I know why I’ve kept my never-worn, sparkly sleeveless shirt in the closet all these years. You’ve offered up some real gems. Thanks and so looking forward to reading DON’T EAT BEES.
January 31, 2022 at 4:40 pm
gayleenrabakukk
Thank you, love the closet metaphor, and so glad I’ve held on to those sparkly jackets 🙂
January 31, 2022 at 4:50 pm
Ashley Sierra (@AshleySierra06)
The stories that come from a word or a line are funny to hear about. Congratulations in your book. Looking forward to reading it!
January 31, 2022 at 4:54 pm
amckelle
Fabulous post. I definitely get bogged down thinking I have to have a full plot before an idea can count as an idea. I love the thought to write down just neggets of life and then seeing where they take us. Thank you!
January 31, 2022 at 5:08 pm
topangamaria
My sassy sequin sweater tank top got us on the Kiss Cam at a Laker game.
January 31, 2022 at 5:11 pm
dinatowbin
I love taking things out of the closet! Or the “vault” as Elaine used to say on Seinfeld.
January 31, 2022 at 5:22 pm
Christina Frigo
Couldn’t love this post more. My list is filled with little weird things like this. I usually don’t know what they’ll be until they just force me to pay attention.
January 31, 2022 at 5:25 pm
Charlotte Marie Gunnufson
I love this post! The idea not looking for whole stories…so simple yet utterly genius!
January 31, 2022 at 5:31 pm
Stephanie D Jones
I love this so much! It’s how I collect story ideas too, and while I wish I had a better system for sorting through them and trying them on, the realization that they would come to me if I just kept looking has been magical!
January 31, 2022 at 5:35 pm
ivankadimitrova
Dev, thank you so much for this exceptional post. “Sometimes the biggest ideas aren’t elaborate, they’re simple…” Well said!
January 31, 2022 at 5:35 pm
Teresa Rodrigues
Great post, Dev! Going to check my closet now, lol. Congrats on your upcoming book!
January 31, 2022 at 6:03 pm
TL Fales
I love the sequin sweater analogy! I think this is how I get most of my ideas, that one phrase or concept that you think “How is that ever going to be a story?”, but it just has to be.
January 31, 2022 at 6:04 pm
Elizabeth Kalasinsky
Thanks for this great post!
January 31, 2022 at 6:06 pm
Sally McClure
You’ve got me thinking now!
January 31, 2022 at 6:37 pm
Roxanne Troup
Love this!
January 31, 2022 at 6:39 pm
matike2209
Loved your suggestions, thank you!
January 31, 2022 at 6:41 pm
tharvey
Ok, now I have to read the seagull with a bucket of paint book
January 31, 2022 at 6:50 pm
kdgwrites
Dev, I love your name! Thank you for the insights. I will start listening to littles. They have a tendency for their own vocabulary.
January 31, 2022 at 6:56 pm
Teresa Traver
I really love this post. Many of my ideas are just the merest scraps of a “what if?” rather than being an idea for a character or plot.
January 31, 2022 at 7:02 pm
Marci Whitehurst
Great idea. It takes the pressure off of trying to build a whole story at once–look for a line or quip and go from there! Thank you! Congrats on all your books! They are wonderful.
January 31, 2022 at 7:08 pm
hlapehn
I love the idea of digging into our past for story ideas! Thanks for sharing, Dev!
January 31, 2022 at 7:09 pm
Jessica Milo
Wonderful post and great insight on looking at something simple and maybe insignificant or odd, and not go searching for whole stories but concepts, surprises, twists, funny moments and letting that inspire you and generate ideas. Thanks for this post, Dev!
January 31, 2022 at 7:11 pm
Renata Wurster
Such a fun post – a reminder to have fun with words!
January 31, 2022 at 7:13 pm
Amanda
I need to go back to these old gems. Well, first I need to do better about writing them down and then putting them all in a consistent spot!! Then, I need to work with them!
January 31, 2022 at 7:16 pm
Deslie English
I have written books full of odd moments and twists. What I love about your post is the reminder to let them sit there until I am ready to try them on…no hurry…just like anything with sequins, the words will find the right moment.
January 31, 2022 at 7:16 pm
Anna Brooks
I have an idea already!! Thank you for the inspiration. And I can’t wait to check out Don’t Eat Bees!
January 31, 2022 at 7:20 pm
Sarah Skolfield
I feel like I just received permission to jot down lines or words and count them as ideas. I have been guilty of looking for whole stories instead of just keeping track of words and phrases that I like. Thanks!
January 31, 2022 at 7:24 pm
Chelle Martin
Too funny about the sweater. I have a couple of those. Your new books looks like fun. Can’t wait to read it. Thanks for sharing.
January 31, 2022 at 7:32 pm
Diane M
A good reminder to keep our eyes and ears open and to always have something to log those moments.
January 31, 2022 at 7:37 pm
Megan Whitaker
The key is to always have something to write them down-usually in the shower, middle of the night etc! Can’t wait to find out what the word is in your story!
January 31, 2022 at 8:09 pm
Traci Huahn
Thanks for the inspiration and the great reminder that some of our best ideas are probably already sitting in front of us (or even hanging around in the closet!) Looking forward to your book and finding out your inspirational word!
January 31, 2022 at 8:13 pm
Lauri Meyers
Love the idea of a fun, naughty moment that can also be a zinger in a picture book.
January 31, 2022 at 8:49 pm
Susan Contreras
Looking forward to cleaning some drawers. Thank you.
January 31, 2022 at 8:52 pm
Carrie Tillotson
Thanks for the reminder that my life-drawer is full!
January 31, 2022 at 8:56 pm
Lorraine Marwood
Love the concept of ideas as simple, we just need to listen and observe everyday life more and then we will find a treasure trove. Thank you.
January 31, 2022 at 8:56 pm
Andrew Hacket
Great advice! Can’t wait to put it into practice.
January 31, 2022 at 8:59 pm
Tracy Schuldt Helixon
I just added idea #37 to my list, spurred by a childhood laugh-out-loud memory. Thank you!
January 31, 2022 at 9:03 pm
syorkeviney
Dear Dev, I thank you for your insight! I often get those thigamagigs and then they are gone… I need to play and allow myself to ruminate! You contribution let me know that this is all okay! Thank you again!
January 31, 2022 at 9:06 pm
rindabeach
I love sequins! Maybe I could do something with the word/idea of sparkly?! Thank you for reminding me again that childhood is all about those little things!
January 31, 2022 at 9:08 pm
jimchaize1
Lots to digest and consider in this post. Thanks, Dev.
January 31, 2022 at 9:08 pm
Nazanin Ford
I have a sequin t-shirt that fit this metaphor just right too! And a dog named Chip! Feeling like this post was meant just for me….is that an idea coming on? Thanks for the new perspective on idea-catching 🙂
January 31, 2022 at 9:15 pm
ingridboydston
If nothing else, I’ve gleaned the title for my next album…or maybe the name of my band if I ever start one…”idiosyncratic oddities”. I like this concept, though I fear my idea closet more closely resembles my junk drawer, lol! Thanks!
January 31, 2022 at 9:24 pm
Andrea MacDonald
Wow, great analogies and analysis! I’ve never looked at story ideas in quite this way before. Thank you for the insight, Dev.
January 31, 2022 at 9:37 pm
Cassie Bentley
My idea closet if more like a cigar box full of scraps of paper with scribbles on them. I plan to cover it with fancy colorful paper for inspiration and a few sequins for sparkle. Thank you.
January 31, 2022 at 10:16 pm
Monica Acker
Shopping in my own idea closet – I love it! Thank you!
January 31, 2022 at 11:11 pm
Elizabeth Metz
Ahhhhh, this is exactly what I needed to hear here on the last day of Storystorm 2022. I started the year overwhelmed and fell waaaaay behind on both these posts and my brainstorming, and so I’ve scrambled a bit on the weekends to catch up. So this year’s notebook is full of a lot more snippet-y, half-formed, “is this anything” lists of idea crumbs than usual. Thank you for the affirmation of the value of these bits, Dev. Can’t wait to check out your newest book!
January 31, 2022 at 11:14 pm
Shannon LaPuma
Thanks for the inspiration to pay attention to the little things!
January 31, 2022 at 11:27 pm
nataliemoralesbooks
Thank you. You made me remember a childhood laugh out loud moment – a great addition to my ongoing idea list 😊
January 31, 2022 at 11:30 pm
Devyn
Can’t wait to find out the word!
January 31, 2022 at 11:32 pm
Lisa M. Horn
Thank you so much for the inspiration! Can’t wait to read your book – my dog’s name is Chip!!!
January 31, 2022 at 11:35 pm
Viviane Elbee
Thank you for the reminder to pay attention to the little things
January 31, 2022 at 11:36 pm
Tracy Abell
Thank you so much for this, Dev. Your post made me realize that something my grown son told me recently about one of his childhood misunderstandings is a great PB concept. 🙂
January 31, 2022 at 11:43 pm
Jocelyn Rish
My idea document is full of sparkly sweaters, and I need to get braver about pulling them out and finding the right “event” for them. Thanks for the encouragement!
January 31, 2022 at 11:57 pm
Charlotte Glaze
Thanks!
February 1, 2022 at 12:04 am
Becky Ross Michael
Great reminders for inspiration!
February 1, 2022 at 12:59 am
Haley Thomas
Great inspiration to help generate ideas, thank you!
February 1, 2022 at 1:11 am
Trenise Ferreira
Dev, thanks for the encouragement to find fragments, not just full stories in our every day lives. This really hit for me!
February 1, 2022 at 1:26 am
Anna Brooks
Thank you so much for the ideas and inspiration to dig around in that life-drawer. I’ve very excited to check out DON’T EAT BEES!
February 1, 2022 at 1:29 am
Anna Brooks
Apologies! It looked like my earlier comment didn’t post, so I posted again. And now there are two! Please feel free to delete this extra one.
February 1, 2022 at 1:40 am
wyszguy
I can’t wait to find out what that secret word is!
February 1, 2022 at 1:57 am
Jennifer Broedel
My childhood dog used to eat bees at the “bee tree” next to our porch. I HAVE to buy your book, to honor him (and to find out that word!)
February 1, 2022 at 1:57 am
Savannah Rogers
I love the comparison of cute unworn clothes to nagging little idea fragments. I’m so intrigued about your new book and can’t wait to see the joke you worked into it!
February 1, 2022 at 2:48 am
Chloe
So many PB ideas from my 10 years of teaching kinder that I should have written down! Trying to jog my memory about those experiences 🙂
February 1, 2022 at 2:54 am
Megan McNamara
I needed the reminder that sometimes, ideas take time.
February 1, 2022 at 3:16 am
Kassy Keppol
Love the title of your book.
February 1, 2022 at 3:25 am
Mary Malhotra
Chip the Dog looks so cute! I’m excited to figure out what your sparkly sequiny inappropriate inspiration word was.
February 1, 2022 at 5:10 am
Acamy Schleikorn
Honestly, the idea of coming up with a small concept sounds great to me because I can always elaborate on it later. It takes the pressure off! Thanks for sharing!
February 1, 2022 at 5:55 am
Leila Boukarim
I love this and love your stories so much! Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us!
February 1, 2022 at 6:07 am
Joellen Raderstorf
Super useful post AND no fair making us wait until May for the word, aka the punchline, the heart of your piece. I’m 58, which is pretty great, but I’m most likely going to forget this wonderful post by then. Please tell us now, pretty please?
February 1, 2022 at 8:06 am
nycbgriffin
This is like the PB equivalent of Justin Halpern’s Sh*t My Dad Says! Love it!
February 1, 2022 at 8:30 am
https://katiewalsh.blog/
What an awesome post! Full of so many great ideas. Thank you!
February 1, 2022 at 8:59 am
Laura Bower
Hi, Dev! I loved this post! I can’t wait to look around in my ideas closet and dust some things off (your sassy, sequin sweater tank is my sparkly black jumpsuit!) Maybe 2022 is the year! 🙂 I love the idea of how a story can just be a line! (and be simple!). I can’t wait to read Don’t Eat Bees and find out what the one word is! Congratulations on all your books/success!
February 1, 2022 at 9:23 am
Latham United Methodist
Thank you so much! I’ve got a silver sequin tanktop hanging in my closet that I have never worn. hahaha
February 1, 2022 at 9:48 am
Lisa Kingsford
This has sparked some ideas! Thanks
February 1, 2022 at 10:14 am
melissamiles1
I’ll get at least 3 ideas from this post alone! Thanks for the inspiration!
February 1, 2022 at 10:23 am
Susan Lorene
I love your ideas about ideas!
February 1, 2022 at 10:25 am
marybeningo
Ooohh I have a few good lines that this post has sparked! Thank you 🙂
February 1, 2022 at 10:25 am
Apryl Lee
I love this advice! So many ideas!
February 1, 2022 at 10:28 am
ggggminusgg
It’s just amazing to me how ideas just zing to life. Great advice.
February 1, 2022 at 10:38 am
karenrafeedie
Great advice Deb – and so memorable with your fun analogy.
February 1, 2022 at 10:49 am
Michelle Steinberg
I have to laugh because I have a fabulous, gold, brocade tank top in my closet that I’ve never worn. Thanks for your insights into little oddities that can become Picture Books.
February 1, 2022 at 11:10 am
Beauty Out Of Ashes
Great advice! I agree: Don’t eat bees. Also don’t make them mad.
February 1, 2022 at 11:39 am
Cheryl Johnson
Love the idea of not looking for whole ideas! A lot of freedom in this.
February 1, 2022 at 11:48 am
Marilyn Wolpin (@MNW51)
Dev, thanks for the post. It had everything: a catchy beginning. an ending that went out the same door you came in, tension and mystery… I’ll be looking for Don’t Eat Bees this spring. And poking through my closet of idea snippets to see if I can make an outfit out of them.
February 1, 2022 at 12:46 pm
Jennifer Hunt
Ahhh…That one word I want so badly to turn into something. When It finally aligns–it’s magic! Thanks for the reminder to “hang on to that sequin sweater.” 🙂
February 1, 2022 at 12:58 pm
AC Perry
Definitely have a few ideas that keep nagging me. You have given me hope that someday they might work out.
February 1, 2022 at 1:33 pm
Aundra Tomlins
So many little niggeling ideas that just need time to get unburried. Thank you for the reminder.
February 1, 2022 at 1:33 pm
Janet AlJunaidi
Hi Dev, I love that this has been percolating since you were a kid! Thanks for this reminder.
February 1, 2022 at 1:42 pm
debbiemoeller
I love your post! You are so right about the nagging story that percolates in your head. And about the way that spark takes it’s sweet time illuminating! I need to go back and revisit some of the unworn beauties in my idea closet. (In my real closet, it’s a little red dress. I bought it small to make myself lose weight :). But one day, I’m determined to wear it someplace special.)
February 1, 2022 at 2:23 pm
Sheri Dillard
Your post definitely has me thinking today! Thanks, Dev! (And I’m looking forward to reading that last page of Chip the Dog’s story! 🙂
February 1, 2022 at 2:58 pm
Helen Taylor
Love this sparkly analogy, and appreciate the reminder that those little tidbits we gather don’t have to take center-stage in a story but can be character quirks, twist endings, and so much more. Thank you!
February 1, 2022 at 4:37 pm
Sandie
Great advice. Can’t wait for you new books.
February 1, 2022 at 4:49 pm
Joannie Duris
Thanks, Dev. I love the humor and heart in your books. Can’t wait to meet Chip and those bees. Idea fragments….We never know when smushing them together will create the perfect, layered story with wide appeal. When ideas pop up year after year in Storystorm, I know they’re waiting for the right mash-ups to be tried on in a story.
February 1, 2022 at 5:25 pm
Angela H. Dale
Love this idea – and the reminder to capture these things, even if they aren’t ready to hatch. I can’t believe you didn’t tell us the word. It’s going to be an anxious wait until the end of May.
February 1, 2022 at 6:34 pm
Kris H
Thank you
February 1, 2022 at 7:12 pm
Molly Ippolito
Your metaphor is spot on! Thanks so much for reminding me that it’s the little things that transform into great ideas!
February 1, 2022 at 7:20 pm
Judy Bryan
I need to start keeping a list of all the quirky things that happen around me. Thank you for this, Dev, it’s already sparked an idea! Looking forward to reading your new books!!
February 1, 2022 at 8:04 pm
Jaymie Dean
Thank you for reminding us to recylce or upcycle ideas into something new based on where inspiration takes you.
February 1, 2022 at 8:23 pm
sharonkdal
This gave me so much to think about! thank you!
February 1, 2022 at 11:59 pm
jessica shaw
Love this, Dev! I can’t wait to find out what the buzz word is 🙂
February 2, 2022 at 12:44 am
Charlene Avery
Chuckling and encouraged by your examples of funny to us but not tons of others…until it is after we write and express it our way. Ta da!
February 2, 2022 at 2:16 am
Azra Rahim
Thank you. I think one of the commentors is right – the people who can observe life from a place of depth are the best comedians. They recognize the meaning in the midst of futility.
February 2, 2022 at 3:25 am
Huyen
I love the idea of pulling out that neglected story idea and maybe it’s time to let it shine! I also like that they don’t have to be a fully built concept- they can just be a spark to get the story started.
February 2, 2022 at 5:51 am
Mindy Alyse Weiss
Thanks so much, Dev. I love the thought of looking for the tiny things that stick with us. Beg us to give them a home. Maybe I should write them all down on index cards, shuffle them sometimes, and see if any good connections pop out.
February 2, 2022 at 7:11 am
Kellie
I waited the whole post for that word! Guess I’ll have to buy the book [smile]. Lots to think about in this post.
February 2, 2022 at 11:25 am
Susie Sawyer
Oh my gosh. After reading this amazing post, I SO want that hour-long Zoom meeting with you!! LOL You are such fun, and I feel so excited to watch for little nuggets to gather. Your sequin sweater drama had me cackling out loud – I also have a never-been-worn sequin-ish top. Looked so great the day I bought it. Still does, but never gonna wear it! LOLOL Dev, thank you so much, and congratulations on all your much-deserved success!
February 2, 2022 at 12:01 pm
Leslie Degnan
Great post. I have one of those sweaters in my closet. Why can’t I get rid of it? Now I know. Life is full of oddities we can mine for more stories. Thank you!
February 2, 2022 at 7:04 pm
Shannon Fossett
I really enjoyed this post! Your energy comes off the page! I can’t wait to get your Don’t Eat Bees book to find out the word! Here’s to simple words that can lead to BIG ideas!
February 2, 2022 at 7:56 pm
supermario6
I love your humor!
February 2, 2022 at 10:10 pm
🌱 𝚁𝚎𝚋𝚎𝚔𝚊𝚑 𝙻𝚘𝚠𝚎𝚕𝚕 🌻 (@RebekahLowell)
Hi Dev, I love how freeing that is to not be looking for “whole stories”, but snippets! Yay for snippets. I’ll take it. Cheers!
February 2, 2022 at 11:21 pm
Ann M Page
Thanks for the awesome post. It really got me thinking.
February 2, 2022 at 11:21 pm
Karen Lawler
I am going shopping RIGHT NOW !!! ( For snippets) and then try out a new story… I have always been looking for the whole story!!! THANK YOU! 🙂
February 2, 2022 at 11:44 pm
Zoraida Rivera
Yes, the biggest ideas are simple! Making it simple is the hard part for me, but I will keep trying. Thanks, Dev. Éxitos!
February 2, 2022 at 11:52 pm
kbrandyberry
Now I am DYING to know what the word is! Can’t wait to get my hands on Don’t Eat Bees! Thanks for sharing this great article, Dev!
February 3, 2022 at 12:27 am
Stephanie Wildman
Congrats on your latest book. Agree with the previous comment – will get the book to find the word. I have been shopping in my own (clothes) closet for awhile – so I love thinking about the idea closet.
February 3, 2022 at 11:02 am
Carrie Williford (@carrietimes)
Really looking forward to Don’t Eat Bees!
February 3, 2022 at 11:19 am
triciacandy
Thanks for this wonderful post! It’s such a great reminder that there are stories in all the little things.
February 3, 2022 at 4:35 pm
annemweaver
Forgot to sign this one! Such great (and funny) advice. Dev always inspires me!!
February 4, 2022 at 3:34 am
Sylvia Chen
Don’t Eat Bees sounds awesome. And love how inspiration can be from anything, even the smaller things or moments. Thank you!
February 4, 2022 at 3:13 pm
Eileen Mayo
Thanks, Dev for the inspiration!
February 4, 2022 at 7:49 pm
S. K. Wenger
Thanks, Dev! I Absolutely love this idea of mining the moments. Paying attention to the little insignificant things to make a story evolve into something sparkly!
February 5, 2022 at 7:54 pm
Susanne Whitehouse
Yes! Keep trying those favorite ideas until they fit!
February 5, 2022 at 9:31 pm
Janel Caverly
Always a fan of Dev Petty books. This post only strengthened that! Thank you!
February 6, 2022 at 3:00 pm
yangmommy
Thank goodness I’m not the only one with a sparkly sequin shirt in her closet that’s (still) waiting to see the sunshine or starlight, LOL! Instead of waiting for an occasion, mayhaps it’s time to create that occasion!
February 6, 2022 at 5:47 pm
lorisherritt
I have a red sequin tank too, that I take out once in awhile, try on and put back in the closet. Also a drawer of stories. Thank you for encouraging me to listen to the world in snippets as well as stories!
February 6, 2022 at 7:06 pm
angiecal76
Your thoughts make so much sense! A snippet here, a funny phrase there, and a ridiculous dinner conversation that happened many moons ago—they each can evolve into the funniest, most absurd picture book. Thanks, Dev!
February 6, 2022 at 10:44 pm
Carrie Cook
Can’t wait to read your new book and find out the ending
February 6, 2022 at 10:46 pm
Ally Piper
Can’t wait to read this book!
February 7, 2022 at 11:25 am
Debbie Meneses
Your snake’s name is Boots. That’s a great name. I envision the snake making stomping sounds. I agree that the more we talk with others about awkward life moments we find that our experiences are not so uncommon. Not only do such conversations inspire story ideas but also affirmation that such scenarios triggered familiar emotions. We might also realize that our stories are worth sharing with more people. Our resonating tails are worth reading about and therefore someone needs to write the story.
February 7, 2022 at 12:43 pm
Anne Young
Jotting down a snippet, without knowing the theme or underlying idea, really takes off the pressure and opens things up. PS I have and love I Don’t Want to be a Frog. I can’t wait to see what you’ve come up with in Bees.
February 7, 2022 at 3:06 pm
Archaa S
I need to rummage in my idea drawer!
February 8, 2022 at 12:04 am
Brad Weinberg
So true – looking for stories never works. More important to look for the little quirks. Thanks Dev!
February 10, 2022 at 2:33 pm
riverwoods21
Hi Tara: I joined Story Storm at the beginning. I have been getting some posts, but went to site to read and commented on all. But I am not getting any e-mails. Not sure what is going wrong.
Peace Penny
Penny Taub, MS ED
STEAM Teacher
Author for Children, Tweens, and Young Adults
Follow me on Facebook, Twitter, and Blogspot
pennytaubwrites@gmail.com
On Sun, Jan 30, 2022 at 7:04 AM Writing for Kids (While Raising Them) wrote:
> Tara Lazar posted: “by Dev Petty Ideas are funny things. They hang around. > They nag. They sit silent and unused, waiting for their moment like that > sassy, sequin sweater tank top I got (for a steal!) about eight years ago > and look absolutely divine in, which has never, ev” >