Woo-hoo! The fab #JewishBoardBooks group is here to brainstorm some small but mighty ideas on Day 12 of Tara Lazar’s Storystorm Challenge!
PIPPA’S PASSOVER PLATE by Vivian Kirkfield
Small but mighty—that’s a great way to describe board books. According to Webster’s Dictionary, a board book is a book for young children with pages made of heavy laminated paper or cardboard. But honestly, a board book is so much more than that. Studies show that the greatest amount of human learning takes place between ages 0-3 and that exposing children to books well before they are ready to read could have a huge impact on literacy.
Are you thinking of writing a board book? Most board books have very low word-counts and only a few images on each page—sometimes, just one.
Why then does PIPPA’S PASSOVER PLATE work as a board book even though it has over 300 words, plus multiple characters and many images on each page?
- The rollicking rhyme and repeating refrain create a fun read-aloud.
- The animals, like cat, mouse, fish and owl are familiar to very young children.
- The illustrations created by Jill Weber are joyful and vibrant.
- Each page provides opportunities to seek and find Pippa and her friends.
Most board books can be divided into three main categories:
- Concept Book: introduce ideas such as counting or ABCs.
- Picture Book: usually about one subject such as animals or trucks.
- Story Book: has a plot and several characters and often teaches a lesson.
PIPPA’S PASSOVER PLATE falls into the “story book” category, with a simple plot and a holiday layer woven throughout.
So, here’s your challenge, dear friends: Make a list of the holidays or other occasions you celebrated when you were a kid – and then create a board book manuscript! And if you keep it to 50 words or less, you can enter it my #50PreciousWords International Writing Contest in March. Who knows…it might become a real board book one day.
COUNTING ON SHABBAT by Nancy Churnin
Why did I write a board book? Because I wanted to thank and encourage little ones everywhere to realize the joy they bring with the simple gift of their presence.
COUNTING ON SHABBAT is inspired by seeing joy in my mother, a retired teacher, when little ones visit with kisses and chaos. Board books benefit from a simple structure. I built 10 spreads around counting from one to ten as we get ready for Shabbat, a weekly celebration where we light candles and prepare a feast to welcome a day of rest. My hope is that children who start by counting objects will sense that we are also counting on kindness as the arrival of a diverse family brings joy to an elderly man who might otherwise be alone.
In board books, it’s important to keep things simple. COUNTING ON SHABBAT clocks in at 48 words and features a gentle rhyme that helps kids anticipate what the ending word on each page might be. I included more illustration notes in this manuscript than I ever had because I knew that the book must be visually driven. Even so, it was a delight to see illustrator Petronela Dostalova take the concept and run with it in her own unique way.
I hope this book will give Jewish children pride in our weekly celebration of love and light, open a window to this happy holiday for non-Jewish children, and spark fresh ideas of how we can all build bridges of love among all ages, faiths, and communities.
SHEEP SAYS SHALOM by Ann D. Koffsky
Board Books are deceptively simple. As an author, they appear oh-so-achievable. 50 words? I can write 50 words, no problem!
But be wary, oh ye aspiring board book authors. Board books are, as I said, DECEPTIVELY simple. Every word has to be just so, and the concept has to be made of such sturdy stuff, that you can tell it with the fewest of words, and it will still connect to readers. For my book, Sheep Says Shalom, that concept was based on the three meanings of the word SHALOM: Hello, goodbye, and peace. So, I actually got extra meaning out of that one, singular word. ( It almost felt like cheating!)
For me, coming up with that idea, that concept, is the most challenging part of writing any book, but especially for board books. And it’s at this part of the writing process that I most often can feel stuck.
I recently had the opportunity to spend time with Jewish legendary storyteller, Peninah Schram, along with my friend Chana Stiefel, and Chana asked Peninah: “How do you get past those moments, when you are stuck?” Peninah’s answer was also deceptively simple. She described how she has a practice of finding the time to daydream each day. She lies down in a comfortable space, puts on relaxing music, and lets her mind wander freely.
And you know what? I tried it and it works! So this is my challenge to Storystormers out there: try out Peninah’s Practice. Take 10 minutes and let you mind wander. And see what comes your way.
MAZAL BUENO by Sarah Aroeste
Board books have immense value besides simply being a baby’s first entry into the world of books. For many children—and their adults—board books can also serve as the first entry into unfamiliar cultures. It can be their very first glance into new worlds, customs, and languages.
As an activist promoting a minority culture, Sephardic Judaism, I believe board books are critical to creating understanding and empathy in families. I purposely chose this medium to convey simple, universal themes for wider audiences to learn about my culture.
MAZAL BUENO! celebrates the milestones in a child’s life—from first giggles, to first foods, first words and more. Every family can relate to these awe-filled moments! While it looks like Spanish, the refrain of mazal bueno (congratulations) is a combination of Hebrew and Spanish, also known as Ladino, which is the language of Sephardic Jews. Cheering with a mazal bueno to acknowledge wonderful occasions is a part of everyday life for Sephardic Jews, which is the point of the book. Mazal Bueno is about normalizing the Sephardic experience and exposing more families to the many ways Jews look, speak, and live!
I knew that I was writing a niche book, but I didn’t let it stop me. Providing windows into new cultures—at the earliest possible age—is vital to fostering caring kids and families. So my advice to all of you: don’t let fear get in your way. Write what you feel families need to read, keeping in mind the possibilities that a board book format offers. Even the most basic of concepts (a mazal bueno!) can open up minds and worlds.
CHALLAH! by Varda Livney
For me, writing a board book is trying to get a smile from (or get a simple idea across to) a little human who has no interest in complicated plot twists, wordy descriptions, or character development. Then it’s trying to relax as it dawns on me that that little human is probably at this moment chewing on the masterpiece that I sweated so much to create.
My board book, Challah! is coming out in October. I decided to make a book introducing Shabbat (Sabbath). I started by doodling wine, candles, a festive dinner table, challah, and a family of bunnies (of course). I drew a word bubble coming out of the baby bunny’s mouth, saying “Challah!” Turns out it was his first word, and, in the tradition of baby bunnies everywhere, this bunny did not stop saying “Challah!” all week long. Would he ever learn a second word? (Spoiler alert: yes.) Eventually all that doodling morphed into a book!
There are many ways to come up with ideas, but here’s what worked for me with CHALLAH!:
Big cup of coffee, quiet room, butt in chair, doodle, daydream, free-associate, write, trashcan, repeat.
BTW, this little blurb is longer than my book.
Writer for children—reader forever…that’s Vivian Kirkfield in five words. Her bucket list contains many more than five words, but she’s already checked off skydiving, walking along the ocean floor, and visiting critique buddies all around the world. When she isn’t looking for ways to fall from the sky or sink under the water, she can be found writing stories in the picturesque village of Bedford, NH. A retired kindergarten teacher with a masters in Early Childhood Education, Vivian inspires budding writers during classroom visits and shares insights with aspiring authors at conferences and on her blog, Picture Books Help Kids Soar, where she hosts the #50PreciousWords International Writing Contest and the #50PreciousWordsforKids Challenge. She is the author of many picture books that have garnered accolades such as Junior Library Guild Selection, Eureka Honor Award, Best Science STEM Book, and Social Studies Notable Trade Book. You can connect with her on her website VivianKirkfield.com, social media, or just about any place people with picture books are found.
Nancy Churnin is an award-winning children’s book author who writes about people that inspire children to be kind and make the world a better place. Her Dear Mr. Dickens won the 2021 National Jewish Book Award and 2022 Sydney Taylor Honor and is a Junior Library Guild Selection, a National Federation of Press Women 1stPlace winner and on the Bank Street College Best Children’s Books list. Nancy is that author of 10 picture book biographies and will welcome six more books, including her board book debut, Counting on Shabbat, in 2023. Additional honors include: Two Sydney Taylor Notables, Social Studies Notable Trade Books for Young People; the South Asia Book Award, Children and Teen’s Choice Book Awards finalists; starred reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus Reviews and Publishers Weekly; and multiple state book lists. Nancy lives in North Texas. Her books come with free teacher guides, resources and projects on her website, NancyChurnin.com. Follow her on Twitter @nchurnin.
Determined to help preserve Sephardic culture, Sarah Aroeste draws upon her ancestral roots from N. Macedonia and Greece to present traditional and original Ladino (Judeo-Spanish) songs with her unique blend of Balkan sounds, pop, and jazz. Since 2001, Aroeste has performed and given musical talks across the globe and has recorded eight albums. She also pens Sephardic-themed books for children, including Buen Shabat, Shabbat Shalom (Kar-Ben 2020), the first PAL board book with Ladino words, and the upcoming Mazal Bueno (Kar-Ben 2023). Bringing Ladino books and music to young and old, Aroeste has garnered wide critical acclaim for her efforts to introduce Sephardic culture to new audiences. Visit her at SarahAroeste.com or on social media as @saraharoeste.
Ann D. Koffsky is the author and illustrator of more than forty books, including Under the Sea Seder, Visual Thinking (for Young Adults) with Temple Grandin, What’s In Tuli’s Box, and the Kayla & Kugel series. Several of her books have been PJ Library selections, and her book Noah’s Swimathon received a Sydney Taylor notable mention from the Association of Jewish Libraries. Sheep Says Shalom will be out August 1, 2023 from Green Bean Books. Find free coloring pages and see more about her work on her website Annkoffsky.com. You can find her on Twitter and Instagram as @JewishArtbyAnn.
Varda Livney lives (and doodles) on a kibbutz with her family and 1,000 other assorted people, dogs, cats, cows, and olive trees. Visit her at VardaArt.com and follow her on Instagram @vardaart.
**Most of these board books won’t be out until the fall, but if winners are patient, they will be sent as soon as they become available.***
- Vivian Kirkfield: PB Critique OR Copy of PIPPA’S PASSOVER PLATE
- Nancy Churnin: copy of COUNTING ON SHABBAT
- Sarah Aroeste: copy of MAZAL BUENO!
- Ann Koffsky: 15-minute Zoom Critique
- Varda Livney: Copy of CHALLAH!
You’re eligible to win if you’re a registered Storystorm 2023 participant and you have commented only once on today’s blog post. ↓
Prizes will be distributed at the conclusion of Storystorm.
613 comments
Comments feed for this article
January 12, 2023 at 8:09 am
Lenora Biemans (@BiemansLenora)
This is wonderful. Thank you all so much. I can’t wait to share with two of my critique partners writing board books!
January 12, 2023 at 8:11 am
Kathy Doherty
Board books make me happy! It’s time I try to write one. As a reading specialist, I know the importance of getting books in kids’ hands at an early age.
January 12, 2023 at 8:13 am
Andrea Mack
Wow! I love finding out about all of these wonderful books! As a JK/SK teacher, I provide many board books in the classroom because they last longer, usually have clear pictures for my English Language learners, and are easy for kids to hold in their hands and even start to read. These all look so great!
January 12, 2023 at 8:15 am
leslieevatayloe
I have not written a board book. It may be a good exercise for word count. Thanks for sharing your wonderful board books. Best wishes to everyone in 2023.
January 12, 2023 at 8:18 am
thecrowsmap
Thank you to all these wonderful authors for sharing their process for writing board books. I love board books! I’m off to do some daydreaming:)
Gail Hartman
January 12, 2023 at 8:18 am
Mark Ceilley
Wow! I loved learning more about how to write board books! So many great ideas! Thank you!
January 12, 2023 at 8:18 am
Susan Gruidel
Keep it simple. Advice for writing a board book and so much more.
January 12, 2023 at 8:19 am
Mark Bentz
Congratulations to you all! Board books are the first books kids get to hold, and read and look at the pictures. Thank you, Jewishboardbooksgroup for posting.
Mark
January 12, 2023 at 8:22 am
Candace Spizzirri
Thanks so much, Vivian, Nancy, Ann,Sarah, and Varda. I’d love to write s board book snd this post was so helpful!
January 12, 2023 at 8:22 am
kerisagreene
How fun! I love how different all these books are!
January 12, 2023 at 8:23 am
Lynn McCracken
Thank you Vivian, Nancy, Sarah, Ann, and Varda. I love board books too. I appreciate your encouraging inspiration to invite others to write them.
January 12, 2023 at 8:26 am
janet_christensen@msn.com
Great ideas! Thanks for sharing!!
January 12, 2023 at 8:26 am
margaretsmn
Yay! for board books. I agree that they seem simple but are very hard to write. Whittling down a concept or story to 50 words is like biting into a peach pit, hard and bumpy. Thanks for your encouragement and suggestions.
January 12, 2023 at 8:26 am
Jany Campana
Thank you to the Group for all the encouragement!!!
January 12, 2023 at 8:26 am
Elyse Trevers
Thank you for sharing your stories and your writing tips. I particularly LOVE the idea of daydreaming. Gonna try that today
January 12, 2023 at 8:29 am
asiqueira1307
I loved writing a board book. It’s fun being able to imagine all that you want to convey in these 10 spreads. And then having to choose what you can convey and how. You all have beautiful books coming out. I can’t wait.
January 12, 2023 at 8:30 am
readmybook2002
Thank you to all of you for sharing your process for creating board books that aren’t “boring” and for the tips on creative relaxation to receive ideas.
January 12, 2023 at 8:32 am
Colleen Owen Murphy
Congratulations to all of you for your creations!! And what wonderful advice! Thank you.
January 12, 2023 at 8:34 am
Laura
Less really is more with this😊
January 12, 2023 at 8:34 am
maureenegan
Challenge accepted!
January 12, 2023 at 8:36 am
brennajeanneret
I never thought about writing a board book! Thank you for this inspiration 🙂
January 12, 2023 at 8:37 am
michelemeleen
I love all the different ways we can try to drum up ideas!
January 12, 2023 at 8:39 am
mdk45
What a lovely post. Thinking of ways to inspire our youngest readers. Thank you all.
January 12, 2023 at 8:40 am
Heather Skinner
Board books and early learning are so important for kids, but I hadn’t thought of writing a board book, myself! Thanks for today’s inspiration!
January 12, 2023 at 8:40 am
tinamcho
Thank you, ladies, for sharing how you got started with board books. Congrats!
January 12, 2023 at 8:40 am
lynjekowsky
I have been thinking about writing a board book. Now I am inspired.
January 12, 2023 at 8:40 am
ramonapersaudwrites
Y’all make it sound so simple! Maybe it is that simple. Ok here I go – simple, sturdy base, and mind mapping for free association. Stay tuned.
January 12, 2023 at 8:41 am
Krista Maxwell
Thank you for sharing.
January 12, 2023 at 8:42 am
pathaap
Thanks to all of you for sharing your ideas about writing board books. Very helpful!
January 12, 2023 at 8:42 am
julietclarebell
Looking forward to daydreaming about board books on my train home tonight! Thank you!
January 12, 2023 at 8:42 am
Lucky Jo Boscarino
I’ve never heard of the Ladino language, so you have educated another person. Thank you all.
January 12, 2023 at 8:44 am
amyhouts
So happy to see you here, Nancy! And Vivian, I know you from social media. Nice to meet you, Ann and Varda! I’ll follow you on Twitter. Thank you for sharing your process. At a recent SCBWI event agent Eve Adler said we need more Jewish books, and I agree! It was so nice to see your work. I am smiling.
January 12, 2023 at 8:48 am
amyhouts
I forgot to mention Sarah. Sorry! I followed you, too! Our daughter is named Sarah, a favorite name.
January 12, 2023 at 8:45 am
Melissa Miles
I’ve always wanted to explore writing board books! Thanks for the insights and the chance to win.
January 12, 2023 at 8:48 am
kiwijenny
I’ve learned something. Thank you. My husband went to Israel last year. It opened his eyes to shabbat
January 12, 2023 at 8:50 am
Robin Brett Wechsler
I’m excited about (and inspired by) all of these books! Mazel tov/Mazel bueno!
January 12, 2023 at 8:54 am
Erica Jensen Shiflet
Thank you for these great ideas! Brevity is powerful–and hard!
January 12, 2023 at 8:54 am
Karen Nespoli
I loved learning about how to write board books! I never really considered writing a board book. I am going to give it a try. So many great ideas! Thank you! Congratulations to all of you on your fall book launches.
January 12, 2023 at 8:56 am
Cheryl Coate
Wow! Some great insight here. Many thanks!
January 12, 2023 at 8:57 am
Claudine Pullen
This is so inspiring and lovely thank you all.
January 12, 2023 at 8:58 am
Laura Purdie Salas
My first board book comes out in a couple of months, and I’m so excited! Thanks for this lovely roundup of examples and advice around this fun form! Congratulations, all!
January 12, 2023 at 9:01 am
Melissa Rafson Friedman
Thank you for the i soya s reminder of the 50 precious words contest. I also write Jewish themed books.
January 12, 2023 at 9:02 am
Melissa Rafson Friedman
*inspiration
January 12, 2023 at 9:02 am
sburdorf
What awesome ideas everyone has shared. I have to admit one of my best story ideas came to me right before I woke from a deep sleep and that has happened several times. I am going to have to relook at board books and definitely enter the 50 Precious Words challenge. Thank you. Have a great day!
January 12, 2023 at 9:03 am
Kristy Nuttall
Such great ideas–thanks so much!
January 12, 2023 at 9:05 am
ConstanceL
I love board books and these are adorable!! thank you for a great post!
January 12, 2023 at 9:06 am
Bettie Boswell
Thank you for sharing your great ideas about board books!
January 12, 2023 at 9:07 am
anchance
All great ideas! Thank you for sharing, and congratulations on all your successes!
January 12, 2023 at 9:07 am
AT Reynard
Thank you for covering board books today and for writing such lovely books!
January 12, 2023 at 9:09 am
crbwriter
Tiny treasures! Thank you for the wisdom.
January 12, 2023 at 9:10 am
Linda KulpTrout
I love board books and give many as gifts. Thank you for sharing this information.
January 12, 2023 at 9:11 am
Linda B
Thank you for the board book inspiration today, ladies!
January 12, 2023 at 9:12 am
rosiesartventures
I love these challenges! I am inspired and motivated by these lovely ladies.
January 12, 2023 at 9:12 am
Jamie Krakover
What a fun collection of books!
January 12, 2023 at 9:13 am
Suzy Grossman
I’m looking forward to sharing these with my grands!
January 12, 2023 at 9:15 am
Lynn Baldwin
Thank you all! So many great insights and ideas here.
January 12, 2023 at 9:19 am
erinquill8
This is a wonderful blog entry and thank you to all who added to it!
January 12, 2023 at 9:22 am
Jan Peck
Excellent! Thank you for sharing your awesome ideas on these fantastic board books! You are all amazing!
January 12, 2023 at 9:24 am
Lauren Barbieri
Congratulations on all these wonderful board books! I loved hearing the stories behind the stories.
January 12, 2023 at 9:24 am
Deborah Agranat Sullivan
Super informative post – brought me back to some great memories. Thanks for sharing!
January 12, 2023 at 9:26 am
Kim A Larson
You ladies are an inspiration. I enjoyed the Israel webinar you gave. Thanks for all you do to help the Kidlit community!
January 12, 2023 at 9:28 am
stefsenn77yahoocom
I love all these board books and words of wisdom you all share!
January 12, 2023 at 9:28 am
Jennifer
Thank you all for sharing! What a wonderful group of board books. I love the themes and the stories behind them. And I’m ready for some daydreaming!
January 12, 2023 at 9:30 am
jenfierjasinski
Great titles and tips!
January 12, 2023 at 9:32 am
Genevieve Gorback
I feel inspired! Thank you, all of you, for giving us a glimpse into the world of Jewish board books!!! 💙💙💙
January 12, 2023 at 9:36 am
Marty Findley
I’ve always wanted to write a board book. Thanks for the ideas and inspiration!
January 12, 2023 at 9:36 am
Alicia Meyers
Making my list now, Vivian! Thanks!
January 12, 2023 at 9:38 am
martyfindley
I’ve always wanted to write a board book. Thanks for the ideas and inspiration!
January 12, 2023 at 9:39 am
Sarah Blotevogel
Thanks for sharing with all of us! I tried 50 precious words for the first time last year and … wow! I struggled! This is a great exercise to try and write a board book for those that write a little longer picture books – you learn how to write something different than you normally do and I bet it helps writers learn to remove the unnecessary words from our longer stories too.
January 12, 2023 at 9:41 am
Midge Smith
I just started working on a board book yesterday, so the timing of this couldn’t have been more perfect! This is so, so helpful! Thank you all!
January 12, 2023 at 9:42 am
Leah Moser
Such a great post. Thank you all for your insight!
January 12, 2023 at 9:42 am
sareenmclay
Thank you, so interesting and I really came away with the message to take time to daydream and let my mind wander. I love how the board books can be used to impart so much information.
January 12, 2023 at 9:43 am
Rachelle Burk
I’m working on one of these so I’m saving this post!
January 12, 2023 at 9:48 am
Shari Piracha
Thank you for the words of inspiration and encouragement. And for writing such wonderfully creative Jewish-themed kidlit. I do my best daydreaming on my morning walks!
January 12, 2023 at 9:49 am
Erika D.
What a delight to see this post pop up in my email today!
January 12, 2023 at 9:50 am
marias62
Ooo I love these ideas. I will try out Peninah’s practice when I’m stuck, which feels like most days. LOL!
January 12, 2023 at 9:50 am
Celeste
Board books are so important and these look fabulous. Thanks for sharing your processes with us!
January 12, 2023 at 9:51 am
Kamilla Sjödin
I’m I spired to try drafting a board book. Thank you!
January 12, 2023 at 9:52 am
Sallye O'Rourke
I loved this post and especially loved Varda’s definition of writing a board book!
January 12, 2023 at 9:53 am
azmh
Wow! This was an amazing post. I had so many “aha!” moments reading each one of these. I feel like I understand board books so much better now and have ideas for some of my own. step 1: finding all of these at my library
January 12, 2023 at 9:54 am
pjaegly
I love these board posts and the permission to daydream and free associate. In a busy working world, it is easy to forget the fun and healthy moments to do these. You all have inspired me to try creating a board book. Thank you for all your fantastic suggestions!
January 12, 2023 at 9:55 am
Joan Swanson
I personally love to learn new things about different cultures, so reading them to my little ones was a no brainer. Thank you for all your ideas of how you develop your ideas! 🙂
January 12, 2023 at 10:00 am
Mara Lansky
So happy the see a wonderful new batch of Judaic books!
January 12, 2023 at 10:00 am
Tanya Konerman
All such delightful board books, and all such great advice for writing these little gems!
January 12, 2023 at 10:01 am
Eileen Saunders
Cute stories.
January 12, 2023 at 10:01 am
jbdedwardscomcastnet
Thank you for sharing your knowledge. I am learning a lot each day. Simple and brief yet tell a story. It’s a lot harder than people think. Thanks again.
January 12, 2023 at 10:02 am
Laura Renauld
What a wealth of knowledge! Thank you.
January 12, 2023 at 10:03 am
kurtzmom548513
Group posts are a real bonus and this one was especially inspiring! It was great to read about the different board books and their origins! I am anxious to try to write a board book now! Thanks so much!
January 12, 2023 at 10:03 am
Angie B.
Board Books rock! I’d love to create one that gets slobbered on someday.
January 12, 2023 at 10:10 am
supermario6
Great ideAs!
January 12, 2023 at 10:11 am
Janie Reinart
Thank you for the lovely post you beautiful mensches.
January 12, 2023 at 10:11 am
kathalsey
Wonderful books by some of my favorite creators! Love your advice, too. Bravo for board books.
January 12, 2023 at 10:12 am
Megan Whitaker
Board books are so important to introduce young readers to reading on their own!
January 12, 2023 at 10:13 am
Andrea Yomtob
Very awesome post today! Love the suggestions, including “Coffee, butt-in-chair” are excellent – lol
January 12, 2023 at 10:14 am
cbloomy
Thank you all! I’m just going go let my mind wander a bit now … hopefully I’ll be ready by March for 50 precious words!
January 12, 2023 at 10:15 am
Lindsey Aduskevich
Every one of these were fabulous tips! I really enjoyed reading the different ways you all get creative. And the board books all look so wonderful. Thank you for sharing!
January 12, 2023 at 10:15 am
Kathleen Gauer
It’s true! Writing picture books is deceptively simple! I love the ideas of daily daydreaming and doodling that can morph into a book. Can’t wait to dive into these diverse books!
January 12, 2023 at 10:15 am
rosecappelli
Thank you all so much! Now I’m off to daydream and doodle.
January 12, 2023 at 10:15 am
Joyce Uglow
I learned so much in this incredible group post. Collective intelligence, right here! (Vivian, I am on the 50 Word mission!)
January 12, 2023 at 10:17 am
Linda Staszak
Such an interesting post–thank you. There are lucky children in the world that are going to be chewing on these incredible books!
January 12, 2023 at 10:21 am
Denise Seidman
This is a great incentive to explore holidays and/ or traditions regardless of your religion or culture. I reminded of a commercial years that said you you don’t have to Jewish to enjoy rye bread, but in this case to delve deeper into one’s heritage and/or as a reader to learn about someone else’s.
January 12, 2023 at 10:26 am
mona861
Love this post-how you’ve all taken your Jewish holidays and have authored uniquely different books, pretty much at the same time. Congratulations!
January 12, 2023 at 10:26 am
Steena Hernandez
Great tips on writing board books! I especially can’t wait to try Peninah’s Practice and daydream for inspiration. Thanks for sharing these ideas!
January 12, 2023 at 10:27 am
Becki Kidd
Thank you to all of you for your insights to writing these amazing books to instill a lifetime of reading.
January 12, 2023 at 10:29 am
Leah Marks
Thank you for your inspirational tidbits. Writing with a limited palette of words can be challenging but so rewarding!!
January 12, 2023 at 10:31 am
Joyce
Great reminders of the work of kidlit writers: important, simple, elegant, and fun. Thank you and congratulations to all of you on what are sure to become both mighty fine eating and beloved classics.
January 12, 2023 at 10:31 am
JL
Thank you all so much for sharing your wisdom and insight.
January 12, 2023 at 10:32 am
gayleckrause
What a wonderful collection of board books.
Great job, ladies.
January 12, 2023 at 10:33 am
mlyablonaolcom
I have a Jewish board book sitting in my unfinished pile. You’ve inspired me to go back and start revising!
January 12, 2023 at 10:34 am
Christine Ottaviano Shestak
What fun! I don’t know that I will ever get my words down to 50 hahaha
January 12, 2023 at 10:35 am
ET Charles
Thank you.
January 12, 2023 at 10:35 am
streetlynn
So many great books! Thanks for sharing inspiration!
January 12, 2023 at 10:36 am
Marci Whitehurst
Board books are so much fun. Thanks for sharing these! Congrats to you all. Now, time to make a list of holidays…great idea!!
January 12, 2023 at 10:38 am
brendad101
I tried 50 words – managed 80! Will have to work on that…
January 12, 2023 at 10:42 am
Reed Hilton-Eddy
Love this. Thank you for giving more weight to the board book. I think it is a missed opportunity from publishers who don’t see the full potential to “raise a reader”. The weaving in of culture/tradition/belief is a smart one. Mire “hooks” and gives Jewish children at a young age to be seen and for non-jewish children to see them
January 12, 2023 at 10:42 am
Debbie Austin
I learned so much about board books from this post. Thank you all for sharing! I can’t wait to read all of your books.
January 12, 2023 at 10:44 am
Nancy A. Kolb
Thanks for sharing Judaic board books. I will order all of these for my granddaughter. Hope she doesn’t outgrow board books ever!
January 12, 2023 at 10:44 am
badwolf1625
Permission to daydream – perfect!
January 12, 2023 at 10:45 am
marshaelyn
Hallel! I soooo appreciate all of your enthusiasm and encouragement for us to try our chops at crafting a board book. Thank you, Vivian, for outlining the different types. Thank you, Sarah, for reminding us not to let “fear get in the way” of trying new types of storytelling. Thank you, Varda, for your simple directive: “butt in chair.” I’ve been dabbling in the idea of writing a board book and your thoughtful wisdom has nudged me once again. Sending each of you energy and inspiration for continued success…mazel tov!
January 12, 2023 at 10:46 am
Laura Baukol
Board books are so much more interesting and diverse. I love seeing these great examples. And this makes me realize some of my story ideas could work as a board book! Thank you!
January 12, 2023 at 10:48 am
Ann Driscoll
I have never ever appreciated board books as I will now moving forward. With great chagrin I realize I’ve totally ignored them. But what power packed gems they are!! I’m off to my local library later today to check out board books, hopefully some by these authors. Thank you one and all for a terrific post!
January 12, 2023 at 10:48 am
robincurrie1
I love every one of these! Board books are so important to culture and language.
January 12, 2023 at 10:49 am
Hollie Wolverton
So many good tips here! I especially like the lying down one – LOL! Loved seeing some info/insights into BBs. Thank you all.
January 12, 2023 at 10:50 am
rebeccacolby
Just getting into board books myself so very timely. Thanks all!
January 12, 2023 at 10:51 am
Margaret Lea
I’m excited to try the 50-word challenge!
January 12, 2023 at 10:51 am
ralucasirbu
what a fabulous lineup of inspiration and admiration! thank you all for your wisdom!
January 12, 2023 at 10:52 am
Ginny Neil
Great post. So many useful ideas and viewpoints I hadn’t considered. Thank you.
January 12, 2023 at 10:53 am
Christy Matthes
Thank you all for sharing your board book knowledge! This is super helpful.
January 12, 2023 at 10:54 am
Gabriella Aldeman
I love all your board books. I’ve never tried writing only 50-words, but I’ll take the challenge!
January 12, 2023 at 10:56 am
Charlene Patton
Great ideas! Thank you, all!
My kids and I loved reading board books (Sandra Boynton was a favourite!). I am now inspired to try writing one 😊
January 12, 2023 at 10:56 am
Ann Driscoll
Ooops I don’t think my comment posted so trying again. I loved today’s piece. ! I’m embarrassed to admit that I’ve totally unappreciated board books. Off to my local library today to dive in and check some out. Thank you one and all for this fabulous post.
January 12, 2023 at 11:02 am
Amanda Z
So nice to get some insight on board books, thank you!
January 12, 2023 at 11:02 am
Becca McMurdie
I love the simplicity of board books. Thanks for sharing your inspiration with us Jewish Board Book Group! 🙏🏼
January 12, 2023 at 11:02 am
Martha Hollenhorst
Thank you. It’s important to remember that all different kinds of people are our potential audience. We need to think about the message that we are sending. Learning to read starts early, in small steps. I have memories of my parents reading to us before bedtime.
January 12, 2023 at 11:04 am
jasmithwriter
Thank you for all the ideas. Board books are so sweet.
January 12, 2023 at 11:04 am
ryanrobertsauthor
Some wonderful ideas. thank you, all!
January 12, 2023 at 11:05 am
Melissa Lettis
Great reminders in here! Writing what is important to you, using few words and how important they are especially with the low wordcount… Thanks so much for sharing the process!
January 12, 2023 at 11:07 am
Susan Jobsky
Simple. Maybe not so simple to master, but we’ll worth taking the challenge. Thank you.
January 12, 2023 at 11:09 am
mommamoocow
So much info! I will need to reread and digest. Thank you!
January 12, 2023 at 11:09 am
kvavala
Great advice here! Daydream! No problem! I wish you all success
January 12, 2023 at 11:10 am
Jan Zauzmer
Thanks so much for today’s helpful post! I have long dabbled in writing Jewish picture book manuscripts, and thanks to all of you, I may try my hand at Jewish board book manuscripts too! I greatly appreciate your inspiring suggestions.
January 12, 2023 at 11:12 am
Jolene Ballard Gutiérrez
I’m so excited for these gorgeous board books to be in the world! Board books bring all kinds of warm fuzzies for me–memories of sharing books and a love of reading with my kids when they were little. Thank you for the advice and inspiration in this post!
January 12, 2023 at 11:12 am
Karen Gebbia
Wow what a packed post from some favorite authors – especially interesting to see board books flexing some serious range!
January 12, 2023 at 11:15 am
Natasha
Thank you, Vivian, Ann, Nancy, Varda, and Sarah. I’m up for Storystorming in the deceptively simple board book format. What are we here for, if not for challenges?
January 12, 2023 at 11:15 am
Shanna Silva
Board books are vital (and yummy).
January 12, 2023 at 11:17 am
Sheri Graubert
Thank you for sharing. I’m inspired to take my ideas and make them as minimal as possible – as an exercise in precision.
January 12, 2023 at 11:18 am
Jessica Coupé
Thanks for the inspiring post!
January 12, 2023 at 11:22 am
Melissa Stoller
Mazel tov times 5 to everyone in this amazing group! I can’t wait to buy all your books! Thanks for a great post!
January 12, 2023 at 11:22 am
Karen Gardner
Thanks for the wonderful insights and inspiration. I had never considered writing a board book, but now I’m compelled to try!
January 12, 2023 at 11:25 am
MikAdventures
Great inspiration!
January 12, 2023 at 11:26 am
Dawn Prochovnic
Thanks so much for spotlighting board books. I have several PB credits, but my first board book comes out in 2024 … I’m so excited to read each of your books as I prepare for my own launch of this new format. I love the way you have described these important books — they are small, but mighty, indeed!
January 12, 2023 at 11:27 am
authorjanetparkinsonbryce
I love what this group of writers had to say about board books. I never even thought to write a book for babies.
This group inspired me to sit and try to write for babies. Thanks.
January 12, 2023 at 11:29 am
kimpfenn
What a wonderful post and inspiring ways to think of board books! I’ll definitely give Peninah’s practice a try –10 minutes of music and daydreaming sounds fun and relaxing!
January 12, 2023 at 11:35 am
clairebobrow
I like the directive to daydream. My favorite activity! Great post from a great group. Can’t wait to chew on these wonderful books 🙂
January 12, 2023 at 11:35 am
geigerlin
The many faces of board books. Thank you for presenting a few techniques to explore!
January 12, 2023 at 11:36 am
sue macartney
Congratulations all! Thanks for your fun tips and reminding us of this (deceptively simple) book’s role in nurturing literacy!
January 12, 2023 at 11:42 am
jumpbaby
Loved reading about your board book journeys!
~ Cheryl Johnson
January 12, 2023 at 11:46 am
Penelope McNally
Thank you, wonderful authors for your inside stories, tips and inspiration. I so enjoyed reading through your thoughts!
January 12, 2023 at 11:51 am
cbcole
Thank you all for your wonderful ideas on writing board books. This can carry over to writing very spare picture books.
January 12, 2023 at 11:51 am
James Adams
I love that there are so many books like this for you kids to learn about different cultures and beliefs!
January 12, 2023 at 11:51 am
iartbygina
My ideas are already flowing! Thank you!!
January 12, 2023 at 11:53 am
Marianna Sacra
Thank you!
January 12, 2023 at 11:57 am
Maria Altizer
This post is a wealth of inspiration! Thank you all and congratulations!
January 12, 2023 at 12:02 pm
andreesantini
Thanks, I got at least 2 ideas out of this post.
January 12, 2023 at 12:03 pm
Deena
I love board books! When my child was a baby, and even while in preschool, I loved taking piles of them home from the library. I’m glad your stories have found homes in this format. Thank you for posting!
January 12, 2023 at 12:03 pm
Sue Heavenrich
great words of wisdom! Mazel bueno (or, as my kids used to say: matzo tops) to everyone for these wonderful books.
January 12, 2023 at 12:03 pm
Jane Martin
Love these suggestions ladies. Thanks so much.
January 12, 2023 at 12:04 pm
Chelle
So much talent. Love the suggestions. Thank you.
January 12, 2023 at 12:05 pm
beckylevine
Thanks for all the board book tips!
January 12, 2023 at 12:05 pm
kirstenbockblog
Wonderful post! Thank you for sharing your ideas.
January 12, 2023 at 12:08 pm
Hélène Sabourin
Here are my fifty words. Congratulations to all members of the Board Book Group. Although it requires a lot of skills to tell a simple engaging and visually driven story in a few words, entering the March board book contest will be my next challenge and I can not wait!
January 12, 2023 at 12:10 pm
Suzanne Lewis
Beautiful board books and great suggestions for creating one! Thank you!
January 12, 2023 at 12:13 pm
michelerietz
Thank you, Jewish Board Books Group for your words of encouragement and wisdom. Board books are one of my favorite genres. 🙂
Congrats to you all on your picture book success.
January 12, 2023 at 12:14 pm
Shannon LaPuma
It’s never too early to introduce new cultures! Thanks for the inspiration from all of the authors.
January 12, 2023 at 12:17 pm
Anne-Margreet
Thank you so much, very inspiring!
January 12, 2023 at 12:22 pm
Laurie Seaford
Yes, get them reading (or read to) ASAP. It is a generational gift. I thank all of you for your inspirational words. You’ve enticed me to the world of writing board books with your complex simplicity. Congratulations on your new books!
January 12, 2023 at 12:24 pm
Annie Guerra
Wonderful board books!
January 12, 2023 at 12:25 pm
bevbaird
What great advice from all of you. Thanks for sharing. Looking forward to reading all these books.
January 12, 2023 at 12:27 pm
Paul Brassard
Congratulations to all of you for your upcoming releases and thank you for reminding me that less is more, less is hard, less is good… “less”-on learned!
January 12, 2023 at 12:27 pm
Earl @ The Chronicles Of A Children's Book Writer
I enjoyed this format of hearing your group discuss a certain topic from different perspectives.
January 12, 2023 at 12:32 pm
Sharon A Putnam
Great Post Vivian, Nancy, Ann, Sarah, and Varda! Thank you for sharing your writing journey with us.
I’ve thought about writing board books but telling a story in 50 words or less is daunting … the closest I’ve been able come is 86 words, but felt that by doing so I had lost the magic of the story. This gives me the incentive to try again. I will definitely be putting Peninah’s idea into practice … 10 minutes of music and daydreaming a day … Yup, I can do that!
January 12, 2023 at 12:32 pm
Lauri Fortino
I love board books! Congratulations, ladies!
January 12, 2023 at 12:32 pm
Teresa Rodrigues
Thanks to all for the inspiring tips, and congrats all around!
January 12, 2023 at 12:34 pm
Andria Rosenbaum
Congratulations on all your beautiful board books!!
January 12, 2023 at 12:34 pm
Leslie Santamaria
You all have stoked my desire to write board books. Thank you!
January 12, 2023 at 12:37 pm
Rochelle Y Melander
What fun stories!
January 12, 2023 at 12:37 pm
Claire A. B. Freeland
Mazel bueno, mazel tov on a great group of board books. With fair warning that they are deceptively difficult, I’m going to try to write one. xo
January 12, 2023 at 12:38 pm
Heidi Chupp
Oh, thank you all! So many thoughts and ideas are swirling. 🙂 Also I’m grateful for the reminder of the importance of daydreaming!
January 12, 2023 at 12:39 pm
triciahinely
I can’t wait lie down in a comfy place and let my mind wander! Thank you for your inspiration.
January 12, 2023 at 12:39 pm
Katie Marie
Thank you for sharing your stories. Writing about a holiday in 50 words or less is a great exercise!
January 12, 2023 at 12:40 pm
Esty Schachter
What a wonderful, inspiring post! Now to look for all these lovely board books…
January 12, 2023 at 12:41 pm
judyrubin13
Thank you for sharing the benefits of board books. While teaching creative writing to middle school students, board books are a go-to tool that teaches them so much about the writing process.
January 12, 2023 at 12:42 pm
nowthattherestime281137688
Thank you for the wonderful ideas for writing board books! You are all so very creative! I do believe I will try my hand at finding and developing an idea for a board book.
January 12, 2023 at 12:46 pm
donnacangelosi
What a wonderful post! I’ve always wanted to write a board book and now I’m inspired to write one. Thanks so much!
January 12, 2023 at 12:49 pm
Patricia J. Franz: Published poet & kidlit author (@patriciajfranz1)
Since unpublished authors have little realistic chance of landing a board book deal, I like to use board books as an inspiration for tightening a manuscript. Having to eliminate words/some scenes or checking to be sure key scenes have ample tension/excitement or even considering if a refrain can be worked in — all of these are components of good board books. So thanks for this great list!
January 12, 2023 at 12:49 pm
Jennifer
Thank you for reminding me to make EVERY word count!…and for the emphasis on making time to relax and daydream.
January 12, 2023 at 12:50 pm
Joy Wieder
I’ve been working on a Jewish board book series. Can’t wait to read all your books for inspiration!
January 12, 2023 at 12:53 pm
Writer Andrea Page
I love learning about other writers and their cultures. I’m looking forward to reading your books!
January 12, 2023 at 12:56 pm
kellyclasenwriter
What a helpful exercise idea. And thank you for the 50 Precious Words reminder!
January 12, 2023 at 12:58 pm
Katie Schwartz
Love all the interesting and positive concepts presented! Also amazed how much can be shared in not many words, as in board books! Gotta go – find my quiet place and start daydreaming…
January 12, 2023 at 1:02 pm
marty
What a post! Rollicking rhyme + repetition with Vivian, the simple gift of presence with Nancy, Peninah’s Practice with Ann, entry into unfamiliar cultures with Sarah, and get a smile from a little human with Varda! Board book writing and creating is challenging. Thank you all for the inspiration. Thank you, Tara for inviting the fab Jewish Board Books Group to the storm!
January 12, 2023 at 1:08 pm
dedradavis
Congratulations to all of you! These are beautiful board books!
January 12, 2023 at 1:12 pm
Catherine Friess
I really enjoyed reading this blogpost and love Peninah’s advice to daydream each day :o)
January 12, 2023 at 1:14 pm
Nadia Salomon
Love this post, because I wish I had these books growing up as a child to learn more about my Jewish Identity. They all sound so enriching and are needed to showcase the breadth of Jewish identity! Congratulations to all!
January 12, 2023 at 1:16 pm
abby mumford
These board books are fantastic looking and these suggestions of way to generate ideas are even more so! Bravo, all! And thank you!
January 12, 2023 at 1:17 pm
Shirley
Thank you all for such great tips and insight into your work. What a challenge to keep it to less than fifty words! Congratulations on your stories!
January 12, 2023 at 1:19 pm
Sara Matson
I enjoyed hearing about your books. And thank you for the tips!
January 12, 2023 at 1:21 pm
Jenna Johnson
I’m excited to brainstorm board book ideas! Thank you!
January 12, 2023 at 1:25 pm
danielledufayet
Board books are not easy to write, and these are shining examples of great ones! Congrats to all the authors on their wonderful books.
January 12, 2023 at 1:29 pm
Donna Rossman
Thank you each for sharing your inspiring and wonderful process. And a big congratulations to you all!!!!!! 😊
January 12, 2023 at 1:30 pm
claudia sloan
Hello! I enjoyed reading this blog post. It’s easy to underestimate the amount of work that would go on a board book, thanks for sharing your process and experiences.
January 12, 2023 at 1:38 pm
Danielle Hammelef
Board books sound very challenging, but I will be practicing my writing with Vivian’s contest again this year. I enjoyed this panel’s discussion very much.
January 12, 2023 at 1:48 pm
Daryl Gottier
What a great look at what board books can be. Thanks to you all!
January 12, 2023 at 1:49 pm
Cindy S
Lots to think about.
January 12, 2023 at 2:04 pm
bookfish1
Love the description “Small but Mighty”. That says it all
January 12, 2023 at 2:05 pm
suzanbh
Many thanks to the panel for sharing your experiences. I’ve got a couple board books in process and reading about your processes was encouraging. Can’t wait to lay down with music for 10 minutes!
January 12, 2023 at 2:07 pm
Sandy Belford
Love the ideas! Thanks for sharing!
January 12, 2023 at 2:13 pm
Cid Fleming
Love that board books are getting the attention they deserve. They are the entry into literature for our littlest readers. There are some great suggestions for generating ideas. And the books like fantastic!
January 12, 2023 at 2:16 pm
Emmeline Forrestal
I’m all of a sudden inspired to try my hand at writing a board book! Blog mission accomplished!
January 12, 2023 at 2:16 pm
Sarah Meade
Thanks so much for this helpful post! I love board books and the 50 Precious Words contest AND daydreaming. 🙂
January 12, 2023 at 2:17 pm
Jilanne Hoffmann
Board books live in a special place. So sweet and fun! These all sound wonderful!
January 12, 2023 at 2:17 pm
Gabi Snyder
Thanks for sharing these fabulous board book inspirations!
January 12, 2023 at 2:24 pm
madisu2021
Shalom, Tara, Vivian, Nancy, Ana, Sarah, and Varda. I was welcomed into a neighbor’s home when I was about 5. That first experience left me wanting more. Isn’t that what we want from listeners? Shalom
January 12, 2023 at 2:28 pm
Alison McGauley
I appreciate these ideas and tips. Thank you all so much! On my way home from work today, I thought of a few ideas for board books, thanks to your posts.
January 12, 2023 at 2:31 pm
Kate Holley
Congratulations to you all on your 2023 books! Thank you for sharing your ideas, especially relax and calm and let your mind wander. Great reminder.
January 12, 2023 at 2:34 pm
Elizabeth McBride
Thank you all! Board books accomplish so much for us in stirring curiosity, teaching a child to attend to word sounds, demonstrating how books are used and progress from left to right, etc. I appreciate all the ideas and inspiration you shared!
January 12, 2023 at 2:34 pm
Connie Jameson
Wow! So interesting with wonderful ideas/suggestions.
I’m inspired to try my hand at Board Books.
January 12, 2023 at 2:35 pm
Laurel Ranveig Abell
Beautiful stories all! I have recently also realized how fostering my daydreaming helps with getting words on a page! Thanks for the reminder!
January 12, 2023 at 2:36 pm
Susan Eyerman
Love board books and so appreciate this post. Great information to ponder. Thank you.
January 12, 2023 at 2:36 pm
Amanda Perry
Thank you for all of these wonderful ideas. And congrats to all of you on your forthcoming board books!
January 12, 2023 at 2:39 pm
Bethanny Parker
So many great ideas! Thank you and good luck on your books.
January 12, 2023 at 2:42 pm
vgraboski61gmailcom
Looking forward to checking out these upcoming culture-enlightening board books! Congratulations to all!
January 12, 2023 at 2:47 pm
valerieschultz
A treasure trove of ideas right here! Thank you all so much!
January 12, 2023 at 2:50 pm
Christine Van Zandt, author of A BRIEF HISTORY OF UNDERPANTS
Congratulations on bringing these wonderful new books to us. I appreciate your insights. We don’t often hear about board books, so this was a great topic for today’s motivation.
January 12, 2023 at 2:58 pm
GOades-Sese
What a wonderful read-filled with great information about writing board books! Congratulations all on your upcoming books!
January 12, 2023 at 2:59 pm
Annette Schottenfeld
Thank you for sharing about your adorable board books and providing helpful prompts! I’m sure many little hands will be overjoyed when holding these books. 🙂
January 12, 2023 at 3:07 pm
calliebdean
I love these posts that feature lots of author perspectives at once. Thanks to everyone for making it possible!
January 12, 2023 at 3:08 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Congrats to this powerful and inspiring group!
January 12, 2023 at 3:09 pm
Meredith Epstein
Loved reading what you all had to share! Thank you!
January 12, 2023 at 3:09 pm
authorlaurablog
I’ve been trying to write board books ever since I discovered #50PreciousWords it’s harder than it sounds! I love all of these! Congratulations and thank you for sharing your ideas!
January 12, 2023 at 3:11 pm
Shawna Tenney
I have never thought much about board books before now. It’s so inspiring to hear all of your stories!
January 12, 2023 at 3:13 pm
Sheri Radovich
I’ve never been able to write spare or 50 words or less and achieve enough spreads for illustrations. I think this is a great goal and I would like to be part of a group of writers who do a similar theme or type of picture book.
January 12, 2023 at 3:14 pm
Diane Mittler
Thanks for the inspiration! great post with so much info!
January 12, 2023 at 3:16 pm
nicolesalterbraun
I was reading to my son in utero and am a staunch supporter of getting books into their hands at a young age. I’ve never toyed with the idea of writing a board book before but I may accept your 50-word story challenge. Thanks, Vivian
January 12, 2023 at 3:17 pm
marty bellis
Such wonderful advice from all of you! I’m always buying board books for the newest little ones in our family. Congrats and thanks!
January 12, 2023 at 3:18 pm
Loretta Schrader
Great things to keep in mind when writing a board book. I would love to write one some day!
January 12, 2023 at 3:24 pm
su
Thank you for sharing your experience writing board books!
January 12, 2023 at 3:27 pm
seahorsecoffeeelektra79018
I’m so impressed with the idea of taking time to recline, clear your mind, and let your thoughts just flow. I believe adding music facilitates deeper relaxation. What a win wind idea. Thanks so much.
January 12, 2023 at 3:34 pm
Allison Fleischman
Great advice one and all! I’m looking forward to 50 Precious Words in March!
January 12, 2023 at 3:39 pm
Clarissa B Evans
Thank you to the group for showing how you infuse your culture into the books you write. This was an extremely helpful post.
January 12, 2023 at 3:40 pm
TonyaAnn
Learning and idea catching from these posts. Practically, I’m going to practice 50 words or less!
January 12, 2023 at 3:45 pm
Lucy Staugler
What a fantastic post by so many talented writers! I love that I can follow all of you on social media now.
Keep spreading your magic and helping us all, from babies to adults, learn new information!
January 12, 2023 at 3:48 pm
Maria Marshall
I love the diversity of these Board Books and their seeming simplicity! I think I’m due for some mind-wandering, doodle relaxation! Congrats all on your wonderful books for littles.
January 12, 2023 at 3:48 pm
heatherstigall
Thanks for the inspirational ideas to get my creative juices flowing today and congratulations on all your board books!
January 12, 2023 at 3:48 pm
Alice Fulgione
Little ones love board books! It is so important to a child”s development, to place books in their hands during their early years. Love the insight offered by the group members and love books!
January 12, 2023 at 3:50 pm
Teresa 何 Robeson
What a great collection of board book ideas from a great collection of authors…thanks for the inspiration to try my hand at this format!
January 12, 2023 at 3:54 pm
jbbower
Thank you everyone such great advice and inspiration! I am definitely going to give my mind time to wander and make my list for the 50 word challenge. Thanks again!
January 12, 2023 at 3:55 pm
Cathy Lentes
Such fun! Sometimes big ideas fit in perfect little packages.
January 12, 2023 at 3:58 pm
Elayne
Love hearing about all these great board books and so many helpful tips! I especially loved Ann’s shared note from Peninah about finding the time to daydream each day. Patti Smith has talked about this, too, the importance of daydreaming and how our busy lives have made true daydreaming time fleeting and precious–we even tend to fill moments while waiting in line on our phones anymore. Love valuing that special daydreaming time and treating it as sacred.
January 12, 2023 at 4:01 pm
Deb Buschman (@DebBuschman)
Thanks for the great ideas!
January 12, 2023 at 4:02 pm
Susan Luchetta
I have so many great memories of reading board books to my little one (who’s not little anymore). Can’t wait to find time to daydream. Thanks for the advice!
January 12, 2023 at 4:02 pm
Peggy Archer
Thank you all for sharing your tips and inspiration! My inspiration is napping right now, but not for long! 🙂
January 12, 2023 at 4:03 pm
Jane Baskwill
Thank you for this. Board Books are so important for the young and require skill to pull them off!
January 12, 2023 at 4:05 pm
Arlene Schenker
What a great collection of board books–all different from each other! Board books are a challenge for me. I think I’ll start by daydreaming 🙂
January 12, 2023 at 4:12 pm
Nancy Ferguson
Wow! What a great introduction to board books. Inspiring me to give them a chance, after daydreaming, of course. Thank you for presenting such a varied group!
January 12, 2023 at 4:13 pm
Katherine Rea
Hi, my son is 18 months old so I love to see board books and learn more about the writing process for them.
January 12, 2023 at 4:13 pm
srkckass
I’m not a board book writer but I really appreciate your suggestions. Thanks!
January 12, 2023 at 4:29 pm
Scott Wolf
I had no delusions about how hard those 50 words can be to do well. You all rock! Thank you.
January 12, 2023 at 4:35 pm
Linda Silvestri
I’m not sure writing a board book is in my future but found this post informative and fascinating. Learned a lot! I’d like to try Vivian’s “50 Precious Words” challenge. Practicing distilling your words down to their essence could help with any type of writing. Will also try “Peninah’s Practice.” Sounds perfect, Ann! Love the idea of these sweet books building bridges of love among all ages, faiths and communities, Nancy! Loved learning a bit about Sephardic Judaism, Sarah! Love the bunnies and your drawings, Varda! A fantastic post from all!
January 12, 2023 at 4:36 pm
calepage
Butts in chairs! Gotta do the work!
January 12, 2023 at 4:39 pm
Courtney Cohen
I’m in charge of the boardbooks at my library and these all sound amazing! I can’t wait to read them!
January 12, 2023 at 4:40 pm
Angela Martinelli
Thank you all for sharing all these helpful insights about writing board books that I didn’t know!
January 12, 2023 at 4:47 pm
taracho4
Wow, this was packed with great ways to spark the imagination and connect with a younger audience. Thank you for shedding light on the board book writing experience.
January 12, 2023 at 4:47 pm
Joannie Duris
Thank you ladies, for all your inspiration and the sneak peeks at your upcoming board books. Great tips on writing for this age group. We don’t want the little ones to be bored with board books!
January 12, 2023 at 4:51 pm
JoLynne Ricker Whalen
Thanks for sharing this great advice about writing board books!
January 12, 2023 at 4:51 pm
mariearden
With a new granddaughter on the way, board books are definitely in my future – reading them and maybe even writing them. Thanks for this post to spark ideas!
January 12, 2023 at 4:51 pm
catchandi
I love the suggestion to focus on a holiday, no matter how niche! Thanks so much for sharing these amazing stories, everyone!
January 12, 2023 at 4:55 pm
Melissa Koosmann
Thanks for all your thoughts and stories! I am writing down a holiday idea today, thanks to you all. And I laughed at “This little blurb is longer than my book.” (Bet it took waaaaaaaaaaay less time to write, though.)
January 12, 2023 at 4:55 pm
Adriana Bergstrom
Great advice on writing board books. I’ve bookmarked this article for future reference!
January 12, 2023 at 4:57 pm
Heather Dawn Torres
Thanks for sharing! What inspirational messages!
January 12, 2023 at 4:59 pm
bonnie fireUrchin ~ pb illustration & writing
I had some fun taking a mini-class on board books. As a prior teacher and an illustrator, it felt fun. But it seemed difficult to get a board book without having an agent already and published books, and that agents weren’t usually interested in board books until they liked a picture ebook you had – and that many board books were assigned in-house as well.
I’d love to hear more advice on this, or learn your path to board books, and learn is specific publishing companies are open and seeking board books from those of us without agents. Or any other changes you se happening in the industry.
January 12, 2023 at 4:59 pm
Danya Vasquez David
I’m excited! For lots of reasons- for your books, for trying out your tips, for my new ideas that popped up while reading your blurbs! I’ve recently been playing around with some BB ideas. Thank you. And mostly- thank you for playing critical roles in representing the many colors of the Jewish experience! Feeling extra special joy to see Sephardic(/Mizrahi) stories finally make it out. Mazal tov/ Mazal bueno on your beautiful books!
January 12, 2023 at 5:00 pm
Liz Godfrey
Board books hold a special place in my heart – thanks for the inspiration to create one!
January 12, 2023 at 5:00 pm
andynarwhal
I’m loving these group post introducing use to writers groups instead of single authors. Also glad to see underrepresented communities (Mazel Bueno) get some love as well as challah bread, a tradition in our (admittedly non-Jewish) family.
January 12, 2023 at 5:02 pm
8catpaws
The sheep in her fluffy dress
Bows her head for the rabbi to bless
“Mazal Bueno! Mazal Bueno!” the guests shout
“Shalom!” says the sheep on their way out
“And don’t forget a piece of challah and halvah
To celebrate my becoming a Baaaa-Mitzvah!”
January 12, 2023 at 5:08 pm
Sara Ackerman
Thank you for the peek into board book land!
January 12, 2023 at 5:08 pm
Kaye Baillie
Congratulations everyone on your lovely board books! I’m inspired.
January 12, 2023 at 5:13 pm
Janet Frenck Sheets
It’s hard to feel “allowed” to daydream when there’s always so much to be done. I’m intrigued by Peninnah’s practice.
January 12, 2023 at 5:14 pm
Buffy Silverman
Deceptively simple, indeed! Thanks for the inspiration and congrats to all on your board books!
January 12, 2023 at 5:14 pm
Diane O'Neill
Thanks so much for the challenge and the inspiration!
January 12, 2023 at 5:17 pm
Sandy
Thanks for the inspiration! I’m off to do 10 minutes of daydreaming!
January 12, 2023 at 5:19 pm
Suzanne Alexander
I have an idea for a board book churning in my head so thank you for the inspiration.
January 12, 2023 at 5:22 pm
laureannawrites
Three excellent ideas. So many possibilities! Thank you for sharing!
January 12, 2023 at 5:26 pm
Sarah Hetu-Radny
What a great idea for a post! Thank you for sharing! Now I learned there are three meanings to shalom.
January 12, 2023 at 5:30 pm
Armineh Manookian
Congratulations on your books, and thank you all for the inspiration!
January 12, 2023 at 5:34 pm
tracyschuldthelixon
I love the idea of ten minutes of daydreaming each day. Thank you all so much for these insights!
January 12, 2023 at 5:38 pm
Diane M.
Thanks for the reminder about the importance of board books. I love the challenge of trying to tell a story in under 50 words. You’ve all inspired me. Congrats as well on all of your upcoming books.
January 12, 2023 at 5:38 pm
Lyn Miller-Lachmann
Thank you for this 5-fer! I’m excited for all these books and have some very eager two-year-old customers (identical twins) who love books!
January 12, 2023 at 5:39 pm
Abby Wooldridge
Many thanks to all of you for the inspiration! I just remembered a story I wrote for a previous 50 precious words entry and am now wondering about turning it into a board book. Congratulations to you all on all your books!
January 12, 2023 at 5:41 pm
thelogonauts
These are so charming! Love the reminder about 50 Precious Words too.
January 12, 2023 at 5:51 pm
Jenny Boyd
Wow! It never occurred to me to try to write a board book. I always thought of them as something that some picture books become. Thank you all for broadening my horizons, and congratulations on your books!
January 12, 2023 at 5:52 pm
rozanark
What a gorgeous array of board books! Congratulations to you all and thank you for the inspiration!
January 12, 2023 at 5:54 pm
Sara Petersohn
Thanks for a fresh view of board books and their potential.
January 12, 2023 at 5:57 pm
authordebradaugherty
What an amazing group of authors! Thank you for sharing your stories and showing how important board books are for young children.
January 12, 2023 at 5:59 pm
Jan Milusich
Thank you for sharing all of your creative suggestions about board books!
January 12, 2023 at 6:00 pm
Kamalani Hurley
a wonderful collection of books! Thank your for your thoughtful post!
January 12, 2023 at 6:01 pm
Kristie J Drake
Thank you for the tips ladies. It has really got me thinking.
January 12, 2023 at 6:02 pm
Kellie
Awesome … 50 words sounds hard but I’m going to give it a crack.
January 12, 2023 at 6:04 pm
58chilihed13
Mazel Tov! I raise my glass…L’chiam!
January 12, 2023 at 6:07 pm
Gayle Veitenheimer
I love board books. Love the daydreaming advice as well.
January 12, 2023 at 6:09 pm
Aimee Hiura
Eureka! I’ve got so many great ideas from this posting. I struggled to develop my board book ideas, then ta-da! Now I know how to begin. So thank you!!
January 12, 2023 at 6:14 pm
Mary Lou Mires
Thank you for the challenge of writing a 50-word or less story. Making notes to take 10 minutes of relaxing or doodling or daydreaming or all of them.
January 12, 2023 at 6:15 pm
Bri Lawyer
I’ve never tried to write a board book. I’ve read many wonderful ones though. I’m excited to give it a try!
January 12, 2023 at 6:22 pm
Diane McBee
Some of my favorite authors write board books. Thanks for sharing and promoting board books.
January 12, 2023 at 6:38 pm
Erica Lyons
Great books! I love that there are more beautiful board books to add to our synagogue library.
January 12, 2023 at 6:43 pm
carlislemalone
I actually didn’t know there were three types of PB/board books. Very informative!
January 12, 2023 at 6:48 pm
kdgwrites
Oh my gosh very inspiring. I can’t wait to carve 10 minutes with music and let my mind wander. The only type of book I buy for littles are board books.
January 12, 2023 at 6:57 pm
Shannon Fossett
This was a fun post full of ideas!! I hadn’t heard of the 50 precious words writing contest and I’m looking forward to getting more info!
January 12, 2023 at 7:00 pm
Amanda
Great tips for carving out time and space to free associate and write! These books all look and sound adorable and fun!
January 12, 2023 at 7:11 pm
Joanna Norland
I love these creative approaches to sharing Judiaism with the youngest readers!
January 12, 2023 at 7:11 pm
Joanna Norland
I love these creative approaches to sharing Judiaism with the youngest readers!
January 12, 2023 at 7:12 pm
Jennifer Rathe
Fun Ideas! Looks like lots of fun board books are coming.
January 12, 2023 at 7:18 pm
lsheroan
Board books take me back to special memories with my sons! These ideas are wonderful!
January 12, 2023 at 7:21 pm
ungracefulwanderer
Letting your mind wander is a fabulous way to get ideas and become clear on many tough writing blocks! I do it while walking (might fall asleep if I lie down). Big cup of coffee and bum in chair is second best advice- just got to get things down sometimes. Thank you all for your insights!
January 12, 2023 at 7:37 pm
Rebecca Grant
10 minutes of daydreaming…sounds like a good plan!
January 12, 2023 at 7:39 pm
Kay
I’m thinking about writing a board book
January 12, 2023 at 7:42 pm
Stephen S. Martin
Love This: Big cup of coffee, quiet room, butt in chair, doodle, daydream, free-associate, write, trashcan, repeat.
January 12, 2023 at 7:44 pm
Mary Beth Rice
I love the idea of creating a holiday board book (Thank you Vivian! ) …love to day dream and it is a great thing to do if you are a little melancholy that the holidays are actually over 😉 ….
January 12, 2023 at 7:52 pm
AD Kemp
Thanks for sharing your wisdom!
January 12, 2023 at 8:07 pm
Laurie Carmody
Wow! What a powerhouse of information in this one day! I’ve been thinking about board books all day now!
January 12, 2023 at 8:08 pm
lizricewrites
Thanks to all of you for your board book writing tips!
January 12, 2023 at 8:09 pm
kskeesling
Thanks for crystallizing what makes a successful board book! And to Sarah-how amazing to focus on the Sephardi experience. Congratulations all of you.
January 12, 2023 at 8:11 pm
Alia K.
Such cute stories! I love the representation of Ladino language.
January 12, 2023 at 8:12 pm
yangmommy
Wow, I loved reading all of these tales & how they came to be! You’ve all inspired me to return to my board book notes & play around again. Thank you!!
January 12, 2023 at 8:14 pm
Artelle Lenthall
Board Books, the forgotten gem for the little gems who ‘bring joy with the simple gift of their presence’ Love it!
January 12, 2023 at 8:15 pm
paulaobering
Loved reading about each author’s experience, process, ideas, etc. Thanks so much for sharing.
January 12, 2023 at 8:21 pm
Terry Talley
Thanks for board book ideas and your book examples of the best. I look forward to checking them out soon.
January 12, 2023 at 8:29 pm
Jeannette Suhr
I know we’re discussing Jewish board books, but opening these StoryStorm posts each day is like continuing to open Christmas presents. I am delighting in each one!
Thank you Vivian, Nancy, Ann, Sarah and Varda, for sharing your board books and also tips on writing board books. So much wonderful information that I can put to use as I expand from just writing PBs, and so many books to add to my reading list.
Best wishes for continued success to all of you!
January 12, 2023 at 8:33 pm
Karin Larson
This was such an amazing post, thank you! I will be checking out your examples. I LOVE board books and read so many to my kids. Writing short is such a great challenge!
January 12, 2023 at 8:39 pm
Barbara Kimmel
So excited about all of these fabulous books!
January 12, 2023 at 8:41 pm
ljtouche
I’m looking forward to checking out all these wonderful board books.Thanks so much for sharing such incredible examples. It never occurred to me that so little words could say so much. Thank you for the inspiration. -Lori Laniewski
January 12, 2023 at 8:47 pm
Aly Kenna
Thank you for your post. Up until now I have never considered writing a board book because they are – as you say – ‘deceptively simple’, but maybe this is the year to rethink that. Loved your post and love Vivienne’s #50PreciousWords challenge. You, the fab #JewishBoardBooks group, have inspired me to set a new goal for 2023. Thank you again, and good luck with your own writing/book releases 🙂
January 12, 2023 at 8:51 pm
Elizabeth Wilcox Saba
Lovely post from you all!
January 12, 2023 at 9:02 pm
DrZatHome
WOOHOO for this post! Yay for Jewish representation! Yay for all of these brilliant words. I love this group and I love these writers. 🙂
January 12, 2023 at 9:07 pm
Amy Mucci
All these board books sound amazing! And I love the advice too. Excited to try the board book challenge and be so mindful with my words!
-Amy
January 12, 2023 at 9:13 pm
Devin Stetson
I love the idea of babies teething on my books! Sign me up.
January 12, 2023 at 9:16 pm
jenwritespbs
So much great advice- thank you all! And your featured board books sound awesome!
January 12, 2023 at 9:21 pm
Anne LeBlanc 🇨🇦😊❤️📚libraries✍️🎤💃⛏️Go Leafs! (@AnneLeBlanc2)
So happy and excited to see all these wonderful board books representing the Jewish and Sephardic culture. I LOVE board books and feel that children are never too young – or adults too old – to learn from them. I never thought about writing one because I tend to be long-winded 😂 It sounds like a great challenge. I love the idea of letting your mind wander for 10 minutes as Ann says she learned from Peninah. I often have ideas before I fall asleep at night and repeat them to myself over and over to try to remember them the next day. Finding time would make it easier!
January 12, 2023 at 9:24 pm
Jennifer Weisse
Thank you all. What an interesting and inspiring post. I am an infant/toddler teacher, and yes, the board books often end up in the children’s mouths. True story. But they still love “reading” them!
January 12, 2023 at 9:32 pm
Mary Ann Blair
I love all these fun ideas for board books. They are so important. Congrats to you all!
January 12, 2023 at 9:38 pm
Lisa Atkinson
Wow, what an inspiring post. I’d love to read all of these books! Looking forward to #50PreciousWords!
January 12, 2023 at 9:38 pm
jillburns7
Amazing post full of inspiration! Loved seeing and reading about all of these wonderful board books!
January 12, 2023 at 9:42 pm
Peggy Dobbs
Thanks for a wonderful collection of ideas! I like the challenge of trying to create a story in 50 words.
January 12, 2023 at 9:43 pm
Heidi Yates
Fabulous tips! Thank you for sharing!
January 12, 2023 at 9:50 pm
Helen Lysicatos
What a wonderful and informative post!
January 12, 2023 at 9:51 pm
Poupette
Interesting tips on board books –thank you.
January 12, 2023 at 9:51 pm
marthaej
Wow – so much inspiration! We have a lot of board books from when my children were younger and they certainly had their favorites!
January 12, 2023 at 9:57 pm
Tara Cerven
Truth be told, I’ve never spent any time thinking about/reading/studying board books. This was a great eye-opening read for me. Thank you!
January 12, 2023 at 9:58 pm
Thelia Hutchinson
I love the idea of board books. I’m on a mission to write one. This definitely gave me the push.
January 12, 2023 at 10:06 pm
Fern Glazer
So many thoughts after reading about all these authors with chutzpah! Thanks for the inspiration.
January 12, 2023 at 10:08 pm
Chris
I can’t wait to try my hand at board books. All your input was invaluable. Thank you!
January 12, 2023 at 10:17 pm
EmmieRWerner
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️thank you alll
January 12, 2023 at 10:20 pm
Jennifer Mills Barnes
Such varied inspiration from each one of you! Thanks so much for encouraging us to daydream, cut words, celebrate our cultures, and try something new. Amazing post and gifts!
January 12, 2023 at 10:23 pm
Vanessa
Ladies, thank you so much for sharing. I too think it’s really important for kids to learn about different cultures. Reading about cultures other than your own, creates adults with greater cultural appreciation and acceptance.
January 12, 2023 at 10:24 pm
Julie Reich
Thanks for sharing your wisdom, and mazel tov on your forthcoming board books!
January 12, 2023 at 10:43 pm
Kathleen Clark
What wonderful ideas. Lots of note-taking. A heartfelt thank you to each of you for sharing of yourselves and your experiences.
January 12, 2023 at 10:46 pm
Ellie Langford
Thanks for sharing:makes me rethink board books. Though not Jewish, I love the seventh day Sabbath. Shalom.
January 12, 2023 at 11:04 pm
Tanya Svec
These books all sound so fabulous! I love writing stories with my kids in blank board books.
January 12, 2023 at 11:35 pm
syorkeviney
Each of these books is a gem, that allows us to see the sparkle and joy in the holidays, the foods and the family love. I can’t wait to see these published. Thanks for sharing your writing approaches with us!
January 12, 2023 at 11:50 pm
Linda Sakai
I’m rethinking board books after reading your approaches. I like the mention of Penina Schram’s resting in a comfortable space and letting the mind wander. I’m going to try it. Thanks.
January 12, 2023 at 11:50 pm
seschipper
Wow, this post provides a great insight into creating board books! Thank you all for sharing! 🙂
January 12, 2023 at 11:57 pm
Jess
Wow, I’m blown away at all the good ideas. Thank you.
January 13, 2023 at 12:14 am
Acamy Schleikorn
Thanks for sharing a bit of your processes to create these board books!
January 13, 2023 at 12:16 am
Lucretia Schafroth
Thank you for sharing your many ideas, insights and approaches to brainstorming board books, ladies!
January 13, 2023 at 12:17 am
Russell Wolff
Thank you all for your thoughts. Building daydreaming, mind wandering, etc. into your day is so important. Coming from another career, I find it’s also one of the harder things to allow yourself (well, myself) as a legitimate use of time. Old habits — and work norms — die hard.
January 13, 2023 at 12:18 am
Sophie Furman
Thank you so much for these ideas to make ideas! I love the one where you lie back and let the ideas come to you, sounds so peaceful and relaxing, just how creativity should be!! 🙂
January 13, 2023 at 12:36 am
rindabeach
I’m a retired teacher, and I love books that teach me something new. Thanks for this great list.
January 13, 2023 at 12:42 am
Catherine Velasco Cappozzo
Thank you for your inspiration and insights! Cathy
January 13, 2023 at 12:51 am
alicia shawn gagnon
Vivian! You continue to astound and inspire me. Now to find those 50 words…
Thanks to this accomplished Board Book group. I must admit that I had forgotten how important Board Books were to our family as we were raising our baby girl…who is now 23. Thx for the reminder!!
January 13, 2023 at 12:57 am
steveheron
Okay the I might just give board books a go. Thanks for sharing
January 13, 2023 at 1:05 am
Sharon Langley
Thank you for sharing! Always good to learn new ways to generate ideas.
January 13, 2023 at 1:05 am
Deborah Ishii
Thank you for sharing your creative ideas for developing successful board books. I love letting my mind wander while I brainstorm my own story ideas. Your various methods are inspirational!
January 13, 2023 at 1:09 am
Ashley Sierra (@AshleySierra06)
Board books are tricky, but so much fun when done right.
January 13, 2023 at 1:12 am
Karan Greene
I love board books! They are so much more than they seem! Thanks for sharing!
January 13, 2023 at 1:21 am
Natalie Lynn Tanner
LADIES: Just like we can learn SO MUCH from the tiniest of board books, I learned SO MUCH from each of your short blurbs today. The idea that basic ideas put into a basic format can create a “small but mighty” world . . . TRULY INSPIRING! THANK YOU!!!
January 13, 2023 at 1:33 am
Teresa Daffern
I loved reading about all these inspiring authors and where/how they develop their ideas. Lots of golden advice and info! Thank you!
January 13, 2023 at 1:38 am
Elle Carlin
How interesting! I love listening to other people’s processes.
January 13, 2023 at 2:51 am
Brittney Jett
This was amazing! Thank you all.
January 13, 2023 at 2:54 am
Rosi Hollinbeck
So much in this post! Board books fascinate me. Thanks for a great and inspiring post.
January 13, 2023 at 4:28 am
Colleen Dabney
Oh what people could learn from only 50 words or less!!! That’s it’s own book 😂
January 13, 2023 at 7:38 am
Mary Warth
This is such a helpful, extensive look at board books. Thank you all and all the best with your books as they arrive on shelves and in little hands soon!
January 13, 2023 at 7:54 am
hansenjc13
Great post with so many gems of advice to find. These board books look amazing!
January 13, 2023 at 8:10 am
Writer on the run
I have always thought board books were not something I wanted to write, but you opened my eyes to some great possibilities! Thank you!
January 13, 2023 at 8:43 am
Monica Acker
Wonderful post! You’ve stirred up some new board book size thoughts.
January 13, 2023 at 8:44 am
Janice Woods
Amazing! Thanks for sharing.
January 13, 2023 at 8:44 am
Sharon Giltrow
It is so great to see board books getting published. Especially such diverse ones 🙂
January 13, 2023 at 8:46 am
Jen Lynn Bailey
Thanks for this post! Board books do sound to be deceptively simple, but hugely impactful!
January 13, 2023 at 8:47 am
Sandra Wilson
Board books are a wonderful introduction to stories for kids, and authors!
January 13, 2023 at 9:14 am
jamarisinclair
Thank you all for this interesting read. That sounds easy enough to do: lie down for ten minutes, listen to relaxing music, daydream and see what bubbles up into consciousness. I might have a headstart with this technique! 😉
January 13, 2023 at 9:18 am
KIM NOLAN
Congratulations to you all and thank you so much for sharing!
January 13, 2023 at 9:29 am
Freda Lewkowicz
Wonderful to hear from some impressive KIDLIT voices about board books. Thank you!
January 13, 2023 at 9:44 am
Juliana Jones
Thank you all for sharing your wonderful ideas and experiences.
January 13, 2023 at 9:54 am
Joan Kassmann
It is so hard to be so simple. Thank you for all these ideas.
January 13, 2023 at 10:45 am
jessaroux
Love the big ideas packed into these tiny packages! Board books for the win!
January 13, 2023 at 11:07 am
Carlie Cornell
Lovely ideas and inspirations. Thank you.
January 13, 2023 at 11:27 am
Prairie Garden Girl
Thank you, Vivian, Nancy, Sarah, Ann, and Varda.
You and your books are admired.
Suzy Leopold
January 13, 2023 at 11:36 am
Annemarie Riley Guertin
Great advice. Thank you!
January 13, 2023 at 11:38 am
Cheryl Simon (@cmsimon18)
I can’t wait to check out all these board books. I hope to publish a Jewish themed book one day. Thanks for the inspiration!
January 13, 2023 at 12:03 pm
Lorraine
Thanks for the abundance of talent and wisdom in today’s post! I am marking this as a re-read for later. It contains so much inspiration and ideas that it is worth a double-take.
January 13, 2023 at 12:28 pm
Carol Gwin Nelson
Thanks for all of the inspiration to write with just 50 words. A challenging goal, for sure!
January 13, 2023 at 12:44 pm
Stephanie D Jones
Daydream, trash can, repeat! Of course there’s more, but that’s a refrain i can get behind!
January 13, 2023 at 12:51 pm
Jessica Milo
Loved reading about board books with these fabulous ladies and authors! It’s motivating me to write more board books (I’ve written only two), and to daydream!! 🙂
January 13, 2023 at 1:01 pm
Echo Roben
So inspiring everyone, thank you for your insights and inspiration (even if you used more than 50 words ;)!
January 13, 2023 at 1:19 pm
Cathy Stefanec Ogren
I loved seeing the different board books. Simple is the word!
January 13, 2023 at 1:26 pm
Katharine Emlen
Hello ladies, thank you for your takes on board books! These all sound fabulous, and you’ve bought me to a new way of thinking about board books. Sarah, I know your muisc so thank you for that also!
January 13, 2023 at 2:14 pm
Darcee A Freier
Wow! Such talent amongst you writers! I want to read all your books and learn, learn, learn!
January 13, 2023 at 2:27 pm
susan contreras
Thank you for the encouragement.
January 13, 2023 at 2:28 pm
carmelamccainsimmons
I love that you can distill the joyous art of picture books into board books! Thank you for sharing your magic with us.
January 13, 2023 at 2:44 pm
Lauri Meyers
Ann – I got 7 ideas during the 10 minute trick! Thank you to the group for the fun suggestions.
January 13, 2023 at 2:48 pm
Amy Newbold
This is wonderful! Thank you! I am excited to try out all of the suggestions from these wonderful authors.
January 13, 2023 at 3:16 pm
Srividhya Venkat
Thanks for sharing your insights! Board books are indeed hard to write. But I’m really inspired after reading your post.
January 13, 2023 at 3:19 pm
Sharlin Craig
Am definitely going to try the #PreciousWords challenge! Small but mighty is a perfect description for the best board books. Thank you all for the great points!
January 13, 2023 at 3:23 pm
Jay
This is a great post. Thank you for the ideas.
January 13, 2023 at 3:26 pm
Hank Dallago
What a wonderful plethora of Board Book authors and their sage advice. Board books are one of my favorite ways to connect with children at an early age. Like Vivian stated, early literacy makes a huge impact on young children to begin learning with word and picture association.
January 13, 2023 at 3:35 pm
Lisa
This was so fun to read! I’m about to start a job working with babies up to age 3, and will be using board books as part of my practice, for sure. And what little one doesn’t love to hold, nibble on, or look at a book?! Such an important time to introduce literature to our youngest humans!
January 13, 2023 at 3:50 pm
Linda Hofke
What a mix of board books.
Thanks for the info.
January 13, 2023 at 4:34 pm
Rona Shirdan
I really enjoy board books and appreciate the tips. Thanks!
January 13, 2023 at 4:47 pm
Kaylee Schmutz
Board books are so good and always so solid. It’s incredible how concise they are.
January 13, 2023 at 5:10 pm
Brinton Culp
Making my list of holidays and trying to keep things simple by letting my mind wander and forgoing fear while enjoying a big cup of coffee. Thanks so much for the inspiring post!
January 13, 2023 at 5:15 pm
Deborah Foster
Congrats on these board books! I have some stories from Susanna Hill’s contests that I’m trying to develop into board books!
January 13, 2023 at 5:22 pm
Christine Letizia
So many lovely suggestions – thanks for sharing! And these books look wonderful!
January 13, 2023 at 5:23 pm
Lisa Galek
These books are so adorable! I love the holiday tie-ins, too. That’s one of the ideas on my list to brainstorm around.
January 13, 2023 at 5:34 pm
Marissa Walsh
got so much out of this post–thank you! looking forward to checking out all your books!
January 13, 2023 at 5:38 pm
4solivia
Board books also are fun to study, as there are so many different kinds of styles and formats!
Best,
Sharon B.
January 13, 2023 at 5:49 pm
greengirlblueplanet
Thanks for the encouraging words to create board books. I love learning about all the books and particularly the Ladino language as I saw the SCBWI webinar with all of you last year.
January 13, 2023 at 5:49 pm
Mary
Talk about a stellar group of authors!! Thanks, to All.
January 13, 2023 at 6:00 pm
chaunceyelephant
So many great ideas. Thanks to all of you for sharing!
January 13, 2023 at 6:02 pm
letsshareatsory
I’m always looking for great board books—they definitely get read the most in our house! These all look wonderful!
January 13, 2023 at 6:02 pm
letsshareatsory
I’m always looking for great board books—they definitely get read the most in our house! These all look wonderful!
January 13, 2023 at 6:33 pm
Marlena Leach
Thanks for sharing your process on writing for the very young. Congrats on your books!
January 13, 2023 at 6:36 pm
mhberg
I’m so happy to hear all this board book wisdom and to learn about the #JewishBoardBooks group!
January 13, 2023 at 7:00 pm
Kristen Indahl
Wonderful perspectives on board books and idea generation. Thank you all!
January 13, 2023 at 7:01 pm
Shelley Isaacson
Love this post. Thank you so much. Time to go back to those Jewish book ideas I’ve been brewing.
January 13, 2023 at 7:09 pm
curryelizabeth
Great post from great authors! Thank you
January 13, 2023 at 7:17 pm
Jaime Petrucci
Great ideas. Thank you all! Looking forward to reading your board books.
January 13, 2023 at 7:22 pm
Trine Grillo
I loved hearing all of your ideas, here. Sarah, thanks for introducing me to Sephardic Judaism!
January 13, 2023 at 7:27 pm
Amita Snyder
Lovely! I cannot wait to read these ❤
January 13, 2023 at 7:57 pm
Pencil First writing &. editing
I love the idea of board books being used as an introduction and celebration of culture, as something to be proud of. As someone who is immensely proud of my cultural background, this blog made me consider ways in which I could incorporate that into my own writing.
January 13, 2023 at 8:22 pm
Melissa Hastings
Wonderful board book inspiration!
January 13, 2023 at 8:30 pm
Jim Chaize
Lots of great ideas and such helpful information on writing a board book. Thank you all.
January 13, 2023 at 8:59 pm
David McMullin
Fantastic! Thank you, all.
January 13, 2023 at 8:59 pm
Linda Kay Chavez
This is fascinating! Thanks for sharing about board books which really interest me, along with new learning about the Jewish community. I love your comment Nancy Churnin, about building bridges of love among all ages, faiths and communities.
January 13, 2023 at 9:47 pm
Jennifer Vose
So true – writing board books is no joke! They are way, way harder to write than I think most people realize. And as I read all of these wonderful prompts and ideas – I couldn’t help but look around my living room which is scattered from wall to wall with the board books that we don’t even bother cleaning up because Daisy will have them all out first thing in the morning anyway – and half of them have chewed up corners!
January 13, 2023 at 9:58 pm
Krys Plate
Thank you, ladies, for sharing your beautiful books! I can’t wait to read them!
January 13, 2023 at 10:22 pm
Jennifer Phillips
Congratulations on your books and thank you for diving into board books for us.
January 13, 2023 at 10:48 pm
EmilyKeifer
So many great ideas in here, thank you!
January 13, 2023 at 10:59 pm
Ana Archi
Permission to daydream accepted!
January 13, 2023 at 11:36 pm
writersideup
Ladies, these are all such wonderful suggestions and the books look WONderful! 😀 I’m a big board book fan and creator so was all over this post lol Thanks!
January 14, 2023 at 1:20 am
wyszguy
What a wonderful introduction to board books. Thank you!
January 14, 2023 at 2:35 am
kathleenannajacobs
I got so excited about the 50 Precious Words that I just wrote a story to see if I could do one. Fun!
January 14, 2023 at 2:52 am
elizabethdaghfal
Love the cultural ideas in these books. Reading allows us to experience so many cool things!
January 14, 2023 at 9:46 am
cravevsworld
Truly motivated by your diligent and altruistic work on these amazing creations! Thank you.
January 14, 2023 at 10:19 am
Bridgitte Rodguez
This was such a great intro to board books! All these sound really great. Thanks for sharing your ideas and how your stories came to be!
January 14, 2023 at 10:28 am
Jessica Fries-Gaither
This inspires me to try and write a board book someday! Thank you!
January 14, 2023 at 11:13 am
Barbara Farland
I’m thinking of reshaping one of my picture book ideas into a board board. 60 words… Got it!
January 14, 2023 at 11:59 am
Diana Murrell
Thank you for this terrific information about board books! I love the idea of 10 minutes to daydream each day!
January 14, 2023 at 12:17 pm
Janet Smart
Thanks so much for all the advice and good luck with your board books. Sometimes I think we think too hard and we just need to relax and let the ideas flow.
January 14, 2023 at 12:25 pm
Shirley fadden
Beautiful books. Thank you!
January 14, 2023 at 12:44 pm
Lindsey Hobson
Thanks for sharing!
January 14, 2023 at 12:59 pm
claireannette1
I am so inspired by all of you! Your books are beautiful and I hope that each of you will publish many more
January 14, 2023 at 2:01 pm
Jeanette
What great ideas. Thank you and for the insights in to board books which i have very little experience of. This was very informative and enlightening thank you xx
January 14, 2023 at 2:49 pm
Haley Thomas
Wonderful ideas–thank you for sharing your lovely books with us!
January 14, 2023 at 3:39 pm
Tonnye Fletcher
Thank you Ladies for these fun ideas to get our brains turning — and for sharing bits of your culture with us! Congratulations on all the new board books coming out!
January 14, 2023 at 3:46 pm
Sandy Lowe
Looking forward to some daydreaming time! Thank you!
January 14, 2023 at 3:53 pm
Laura Bower
I learned so much from this post and feel inspired to revisit one of my board book drafts! Congratulations to all of you on these wonderful books! I am looking forward to finding a quiet place and letting my mind wander! 🙂
January 14, 2023 at 4:09 pm
Pamela Harrison
I love these amazing authors and can’t wait for their new books to come out. Thank you all for sharing!
January 14, 2023 at 4:19 pm
J. Brianne Jahn
Totally inspired! Thank you!
January 14, 2023 at 4:34 pm
Annette Martin
Thank you, ladies, for much needed inspiration!
January 14, 2023 at 5:44 pm
pecrosby
I learned some important things about board books from these amazing and culturally diverse group of authors! Thank you for your inspiring insights!
January 14, 2023 at 5:51 pm
michellesteinberg
So much wisdom shared by these incredible women! looking forward to all of your books.
January 14, 2023 at 5:57 pm
angiecal76
I’m sure it’s extremely challenging to write a board book so I’m appreciative of all your sound and creative advice!
January 14, 2023 at 6:29 pm
Melissa Chupp
I love the simplicity of board books. Thanks for sharing!
January 14, 2023 at 6:36 pm
stephaniemstories
What awesome board books. I’m inspired to try a 50 word or less draft now!
January 14, 2023 at 8:12 pm
R.G. Spaulding
Loved reading about all these books and the tips. Thank you.
January 14, 2023 at 9:30 pm
Christine M Irvin
I love board books. Thanks to all of you for sharing your stories, your ideas and your jouneys.
January 14, 2023 at 9:56 pm
Rebecca Gardyn Levington
Awesome ideas all around! thank you so much for sharing! 🙂
January 14, 2023 at 10:10 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
What a delightful post that is packed full of wonderful information and INSPIRATION! I’ve been playing around with board book ideas and your words are very helpful! Thanks to each of you.
January 14, 2023 at 10:22 pm
Manju Beth Howard 🌻 (@ManjuBeth)
Wonderful post! Thank you all for your insight.
January 14, 2023 at 10:25 pm
Michele Helsel
Looks like I need to daydream more!
January 14, 2023 at 10:45 pm
Christina Dankert
Thank you ladies! I love the 50 word challenge based on a holiday/occasion. I can’t wait for Vivian’s 50 precious word challenge again this year!
January 14, 2023 at 10:48 pm
Adriana Gutierrez
I have the greatest memories reading BB to my babies. Thanks for the ideas.
January 15, 2023 at 12:14 am
debbiemoeller
This was a great post. Thank you, ladies! I look forward to the 50 word challenge.
January 15, 2023 at 12:48 am
Angela Turner
Wonderful post! It gave me a lot to think about
January 15, 2023 at 10:51 am
🇵🇪 Sara Fajardo 🇺🇸 is wrestling with words (@safajarwrites)
Thank you for sharing!
January 15, 2023 at 11:17 am
Susanne Whitehouse
Love board books! Thanks for all the ideas, ladies!
January 15, 2023 at 12:18 pm
tinefg
Wow! Thank you Vivian, Nancy, Ann, Sarah and Cards for such great brainstorming kick starters. I had never really considered writing a board book (for lots of reasons) but you’ve got me thinking. Congratulations on your upcoming releases!
January 15, 2023 at 2:42 pm
Sarah Lynne John
Board books haven’t been on my radar, but now they are! Thanks!
January 15, 2023 at 2:52 pm
Cassie Bentley
You’ve given me a short book challenge to chew on.
Thank you.
January 15, 2023 at 3:53 pm
Dani Duck
Thank you so much for all your posts. You all are amazing! Lots of great ideas here for all kinds of books. I love it! Love the time each of you put into this post!
January 15, 2023 at 5:24 pm
Emily
I would love to write a board book!
January 15, 2023 at 5:42 pm
FrannyG
Going to try writing a story in under 50 words. And doodling more. Thanks for all your posts
January 15, 2023 at 6:09 pm
Jennie H
Board books are simple and yet so powerful. They are on my list to tackle writing.Thank you for sharing!
January 15, 2023 at 6:14 pm
Melissa Trempe
I love board books and their simplicity, which is why they’re so hard to write! I can’t wait to read all of yours!
January 15, 2023 at 6:18 pm
sharonkdal
What a fantastic group! Thank you all for the inspiring post.
January 15, 2023 at 7:52 pm
Ali V. (they/them)
So fun – thank you!
January 15, 2023 at 9:15 pm
hcvagley
You ladies have higher voltage than the Power Rangers!
January 15, 2023 at 11:12 pm
littleseedsread
How inspiring you all are! Thank you for breaking down the types of board books and presenting such fabulous examples. I feel motivated to attempt one myself.
January 16, 2023 at 1:23 am
staceygustafson
Board books are essential to the tiny beginning reader. The bright colors, interesting words, so much fun!
January 16, 2023 at 2:30 am
amomnextdoor
Board books are a challenging format – kudos to all of you!
January 16, 2023 at 7:51 am
Beth Elliott
Another jam-packed post. Thank you Jewish book creators, and congratulations on all of your upcoming titles.
January 16, 2023 at 8:12 am
effiekoliopoulos
These are lovely! Congrats to all the authors on their upcoming books and for sharing your insight on board books.
January 16, 2023 at 9:18 am
Melissa McDaniel
Fabulous! Thank you!
January 16, 2023 at 9:34 am
Jamie Bills
Thank you all so much! I ended up taking more than one day to digest all of your great tips. Congratulations on your upcoming books!
January 16, 2023 at 12:04 pm
Christine Fleming McIsaac
Love the inspiration and challenges. Thanks for the reminder on #50PreciousWords. Thank you for all of this!
January 16, 2023 at 12:54 pm
Jen Subra
Great bits of advice for writing board books! Thanks!
January 16, 2023 at 1:07 pm
Danette
You have all inspired me to get back to work on my board books. Thank you!
January 16, 2023 at 3:26 pm
Megan McNamara
I love a post that incorporates so many things to try! I’m going to start with the ten-minute mind wander exercise!
January 16, 2023 at 3:27 pm
Marilyn Wolpin
I love that all of you have bonded together over Jewish Board Books. I send a Mazal Bueno to you all!
January 16, 2023 at 3:40 pm
juliannahelt
Very inspiring!
January 16, 2023 at 3:52 pm
Donna Marx
I appreciate the info on the different types of board books. I am intrigued about trying this type of PB. Thanks so much!
January 16, 2023 at 4:05 pm
Shirley fadden
Love all this variety. Thank you!
January 16, 2023 at 4:07 pm
Shirley fadden
Love the variety here and the beautiful board books.
January 16, 2023 at 4:34 pm
Penny Taub
Thank you for the great list of board Books to look forward to reading!! 50 words or less, what a challenge. Love the idea to relax for 10 minutes every afternoon to dream and unwind. Amazing careers.
January 16, 2023 at 5:09 pm
Jennifer Kennedy
Board books can be so underrated because they look “deceptively simple.” Thank you for bringing these important books into the world!
January 16, 2023 at 5:42 pm
Michelle Cusolito
These all look fun!
January 16, 2023 at 7:38 pm
Christine Graham
These books all look delightful!
January 16, 2023 at 11:02 pm
Lisa M. Horn
Thanks, ladies! I participated in #50PreciousWords for the first time last year. Applause for all of you. Writing in 50 words or less is very challenging. I’m ready for another stab at it now after reading all of your inspiring stories.
January 16, 2023 at 11:05 pm
Ashley Karges
Thank you for all this wonderful advice!
January 17, 2023 at 3:29 am
Suhasini Gupta
Thanks for sharing.
January 17, 2023 at 7:40 am
Cynthia Ning
Hello everyone!
It is awe inspiring to see a beautiful community of writers coming together to share their culture and traditions to children through gorgeous board books. There is a need and importance to bring this to a younger audience so they can celebrate their heritage and themselves with their family and loved ones.
Day 12 ideas down.
Cynthia x
January 17, 2023 at 10:31 am
Ali Oxtoby
Let our minds wander and create. We’re allowed. Yay!
January 17, 2023 at 10:45 am
Nancy Kotkin
Thanks for including board books in the mix. These all seem like excellent examples.
January 17, 2023 at 12:13 pm
Dawn M.
Take time to daydream each day. Great ideas. Thanks for sharing.
January 17, 2023 at 1:22 pm
Anne Young
So many different approaches to the ‘simple’ board book. Thank you all for the insider stories.
January 17, 2023 at 2:40 pm
Nicole Loos Miller
Love the inclusion of board books in storystorm and all the different creative avenues that lead to these lovely stories.
January 17, 2023 at 3:25 pm
Susan F Good
I love the concept of giving yourself permission to daydream even if it is only for 10 mins.
January 17, 2023 at 5:12 pm
Amy Grover
Thank you, writers! I’ve never tried to write a board book, but you make it sound fun to try!
January 17, 2023 at 5:12 pm
Amy Grover
Thank you, writers! I’ve never tried to write a board book, but you make it sound fun to try!
January 17, 2023 at 5:27 pm
Kristi Mahoney
I love the idea of incorporating board book ideas. Thank you all for your inspiration!
January 17, 2023 at 5:37 pm
libbydemmon
Thank you to all of you!
January 17, 2023 at 5:53 pm
Debbi G
Lots of inspiration & information about board books. Thank you!
January 17, 2023 at 8:44 pm
Barbara Senenman
This is a fabulous and inspiring post. I hadn’t tried board books, but I do want to read all of yours and study them. Then I’ll show them to my grandson. After he’s looked at the pictures, if he does try to eat it, I know he liked it!
January 17, 2023 at 9:39 pm
nlcardenas
So much is packed into bite-sized board books.
January 17, 2023 at 11:16 pm
Zoraida Rivera
Interesting stories and food for thought. Thank you all.
January 17, 2023 at 11:44 pm
Jane Dippold
Thanks for the great post from all of you!
January 18, 2023 at 9:47 am
Azra Rahim
Thank you for all the inspiration!
January 18, 2023 at 1:28 pm
Ann Page
Wow! What an amazing group! Thanks for the tips and inspiration.
January 18, 2023 at 1:57 pm
Michelle S Kennedy
Lots of good nuggets in this post! And I love Vivian’s challenge to try to create a board book using 50 words or less!
January 18, 2023 at 3:33 pm
Clement, Laura
What a beautiful group of writers. Thank you for this post!
January 18, 2023 at 5:57 pm
Carol Gordon Ekster
I love the fact that there is a Jewish Board Book group! Yay for Jewish stories. Yay for #kidlit authors.
January 18, 2023 at 6:03 pm
catlady45
I really enjoyed hearing from this group!
January 18, 2023 at 10:15 pm
Lisa Billa
Congratulations and thanks to all of you! I’m excited to see so many wonderful Jewish board books, and enjoyed hearing about the inspiration and creation for each one. I love the idea of using 50 Precious Words for a board book challenge!
January 19, 2023 at 11:03 am
Rebecca Guzinski
I am so ecstatic about today’s post! I am inspired to the point of printing this post so I always have it at my fingertips. In November 2022, I attended the SCBWI Israel webinar on board books and it was AMAZING!!!!!!
January 19, 2023 at 1:02 pm
Tess weaver
Thank you for this informative post! I love board books and appreciate all of your insights. Thanks so much!
January 19, 2023 at 2:41 pm
Ashley Wu
What a treasure trove of knowledge! I am so inspired by this post and appreciate the diversity highlighted in these books.
January 19, 2023 at 3:18 pm
Angela De Groot
Thank you! Your tips and examples helped me generate a boatload of board book ideas. I love the challenge of molding an idea into a 50 word or less story or concept book.
January 19, 2023 at 4:00 pm
Debra Katz
All of these board books sound so interesting.
January 20, 2023 at 11:26 am
suzannepoulterharris
I tend to forget about board books during Storystorm. Thanks to this post, I’m going to daydream and come up with a few board book ideas for my list!
January 20, 2023 at 12:10 pm
kidlitgail
Vivian and Nancy are two of my favorite PB writers! I’m excited to read the othe books as well !
January 20, 2023 at 3:03 pm
susaninez0905
Thank you for a wonderful post. So much great information here! 🙂
January 20, 2023 at 3:42 pm
aidantalkin
perfect day to read this as I start edits on a new board book for my agent!
January 20, 2023 at 6:17 pm
allyenz
So great to hear about a 300 word board book, be reminded about general approaches to board books, and also see those adorable challah doodles! Very clever!
January 21, 2023 at 8:56 am
topangamaria
Doodling and day dreaming, just what i like to do !
January 21, 2023 at 10:52 am
Jennifer Hunt
5 in one post–awesome!
January 21, 2023 at 5:23 pm
Paula VE
Thank you for the board book inspiration!
January 21, 2023 at 7:30 pm
Dori Stone
Thank you all for the inspiring post. I love all the great ideas you’ve shared. Now it’s time to let my mind wander and craft a book in 50 words or less.
January 21, 2023 at 8:06 pm
Eva Felder
Dear Vivian, Nancy, Ann, Sarah, and Varda
Each one of you, in your own very unique way, have inspired me to write a Board Book. It’s going to be very hard for me as I always have excess words. I am sure that the necessary discipline, will help me with my Picture Book manuscripts.
Congratulations to all of you on the wonderful upcoming books.
I am still smiling learning about Sarah writing in Ladino. Your songs are awesome! Even that I am Ashkenazi, many of my classmates always had cool and fun comments in Ladino for all kind of occasions.
Thanks for a great post encouraging so many of us, to take our first steps in a new adventure!
January 22, 2023 at 12:08 am
Maria Bostian
Thank you ladies so much for this post. It was packed with so many great ideas. I wrote pages of notes!
January 22, 2023 at 10:51 am
LaurenKerstein
What a fabulous post. You offered terrific ideas and I LOVED the glimpses into your beautiful books!
January 23, 2023 at 10:39 am
Judy Sobanski
Thank you for sharing your thoughts on board books. All your books look wonderful! I love that they represent the Jewish faith for all to appreciate!
January 23, 2023 at 4:41 pm
Joanne Roberts
I have a bunch of board book manuscripts, but I love the concise reminders of both the audience and the possibilities. Thanks!
January 23, 2023 at 7:03 pm
Patti Ranson
Great intro to board book thinking. Question: is a board book’s success determined when the number of teeth marks exceeds the word count? 😉
January 23, 2023 at 10:24 pm
kaleegwarjanski
I love board books! Fun post!
January 24, 2023 at 12:59 am
marybeningo
I like that a few of you suggested daydreaming for 10 minutes – I need to put more emphasis on this myself. Thank you!
January 24, 2023 at 11:46 am
Leah Kessler
You’ve inspired me to try harder to find a home for my Jewish board book and maybe to develop some of the other ideas I have.
January 24, 2023 at 12:31 pm
Jane Heitman Healy
This is a fascinating insight into a genre that I never considered. Congratulations to all of you!
January 24, 2023 at 7:19 pm
Kassy Keppol
I have been working on a board book idea. Thank you for sharing.
January 24, 2023 at 11:35 pm
Katie Berner
Thank you all for the great ideas! Board books definitely intimidate me, but I’m looking forward to tackling the 50 word challenge!
January 25, 2023 at 1:29 am
Toni Weeks
Board books are so important to tiny humans. You’ve all inspired me to try to write one. Thanks!
January 25, 2023 at 8:14 pm
Angie
I love how board books are an entry way into the world of books! Thanks for the great tips!
January 25, 2023 at 10:45 pm
Sylvia Mary Grech
Thanks for your post.
January 26, 2023 at 1:47 am
Eileen Mayo
What heartfelt advice and lovely stories to go with each. Thanks for the helpful ideas.
January 26, 2023 at 10:59 am
Rachel
Thank you for the valuable insights!
January 26, 2023 at 12:01 pm
Ellen Leventhal
These deceptively simple books are so important. Thank you for sharing!
January 26, 2023 at 3:04 pm
Brian Burak
I love the reminder to think big with a small book. I am going to try writing a board book now. Thank you!
January 26, 2023 at 3:29 pm
JC
Thank you for your post!
January 27, 2023 at 1:44 am
JEN Garrett
I always thought I wouldn’t write a board book, but this month I have more than one idea that really should be a board book instead of the “older reader” picture book. So, who knows? I could be in a future board book writers group someday!
January 27, 2023 at 10:18 am
ptnozell
Fascinating post! Love how each of you approached writing a board book, or adapting a picture book into a board book, differently. Thank you for sharing!
January 27, 2023 at 4:00 pm
Deb McGarvey
Thank you, fellow Jewish creators! It’s so great to see the many ways to approach Jewish subjects in board books. And great tips as well.
January 27, 2023 at 5:46 pm
Judy Palermo
Fantastic info! Thank you.
January 28, 2023 at 5:58 pm
Viviane
Thank you so much for the inspiration!
January 28, 2023 at 6:00 pm
Stephanie Wildman
Congrats on all of your books. I’d like to take up the under 50 word challenge !
January 29, 2023 at 9:59 am
Johanna Peyton
This post is so full of ideas. Congratulations on your books and thank you for sharing.
January 29, 2023 at 10:00 am
Johanna Peyton
This post is so full of ideas. I can’t wait for #50preciouswords! Congratulations on your books and thank you for sharing.
January 29, 2023 at 1:29 pm
Susie Sawyer
Another jackpot Storystorm post! SO many wonderful authors and books featured – all with great ideas and inspiration. Congratulations to all of you, and thank you for sharing your thoughts!
January 29, 2023 at 3:52 pm
sylviaichen
Loved what you all shared here, so good! Thank you!!
January 29, 2023 at 5:25 pm
Aimee Larke
Wonderful insight into board books. Thank you!
January 29, 2023 at 8:10 pm
René Bartos
Great post. Thanks to all of you for sharing and for inspiring the youngest budding readers with amazing board books. Congrats to everyone!
January 29, 2023 at 8:35 pm
Kris Hamblin
Thank you for the grat ideas! I need more play and daydreams
January 29, 2023 at 10:40 pm
goodreadswithronna
Not only am I thrilled to see such talented Jewish women authors and author-illustrators featured on Storystorm, but the info regarding the craft of board book writing is excellent. Thank you.
January 31, 2023 at 12:08 am
Kristin Sawyer
Thank you for these wonderful examples and words of wisdom. (I am eager to try Vivian’s #50PreciousWords challenge.)
January 31, 2023 at 1:01 am
Amanda
I have a sudden urge now to write a board book–will have to look into the #50preciouswords challenge come March!
January 31, 2023 at 2:44 pm
colleenrkosinski
Looking forward to the 50 precious words challenge!
January 31, 2023 at 6:27 pm
Caitlin
OOooh, what a fun and insightful post – thanks for sharing so many details about board books. I’m intrigued! Can’t wait for the #50PreciousWords challenge too. Yeee-haw.
January 31, 2023 at 7:55 pm
Corey King
I’ve just started to look into board books! Thanks for the info!
January 31, 2023 at 10:47 pm
KamillaM
Amazing collection of writers!
Kamilla Milligan, Writer (she/her) kamillamilligan.com
February 1, 2023 at 5:46 pm
Christine M. Irvin
I’ve been going back through the postings to make sure I have commented on each one. I thought I had previously commented on this one, but I can’t find my comment anywhere. So, thank you for the great ideas presented in this post!
February 2, 2023 at 1:59 pm
Jes Trudel
Not sure if I’m too late to comment. Every year I forget to comment on all the posts. I’ll post late this year and hope for the best. 🙂 Thanks for a great month Tara and guests!
February 2, 2023 at 4:27 pm
Bhandi
I have a couple of board book ideas and couldn’t agree more that kids need to get introduced young to books! My son LOVED Sandra Boytons Doggie book so much that he would just be barking 😂 but he also asks to be read to every night. He’s 2 1/2
February 3, 2023 at 12:07 am
Jocelyn Rish
I’ve never really considered writing a board book before, but after reading this, I’m definitely inspired to experiment with it!
February 3, 2023 at 1:11 am
Keeping the Me in Mommy
Peninah’s practice is right up my alley!
February 7, 2023 at 9:27 am
Kaela Parkhouse
Varda, your post is so funny! 😀 Thanks!
February 13, 2023 at 11:15 pm
Dea Brayden
So glad to see board books getting the spotlight. Thanks y’all for your wisdom and work.