by Patricia Tanumihardja
Write what you know—I’m sure you’ve heard this phrase before. What exactly does it mean? To put it simply, you take something from your life—experiences, relationships, where you live, people you know, even your job!—and use it to build a story.
My debut picture book RAMEN FOR EVERYONE (Atheneum Books, March, 2023), illustrated by Shiho Pate, is a great example of how I applied this mantra to my writing process.
Brainstorming Ideas
In my other life, I’m a food writer and cookbook author. Surprise, surprise, that many of my story ideas involve food, eating, and/or cooking!
Over my years of PiBoIdMo-ing and Storystorming, I’ve come up with dozens of story ideas that fit the bill. This is what my list of ideas looked like one year:
- Monster family owns a bakery
- Caveboy learns table manners
- Crazy mashup menu: clam chowder ice cream, spaghetti and meatball sundaes, pickles and cream cheesecake
- Girl wants to be a sushi chef even though it’s against tradition
- Boy loves noodles
In the same vein, you can write what you know regardless of what you do.
If you’re an engineer or science teacher, your brainstorm list could include:
- Girl builds a rocket/see-saw contraption to fly to Mars
If you work in fashion,
- Boy incorporates found objects into his wardrobe to create statement fashion clothing
What about banking?
- Boy picks up pennies he finds to save for …
Big Picture Themes
Of course, an idea is just an idea. The next step is tying your idea to a central theme or thread that will be the unifying element of your story.
If you read several books written by the same author, you’ll notice a pattern. Kelly DiPucchio often writes about friendship (OONA, POE WON’T GO), Ame Dyckman likes writing stories about family (DANDY, WOLFIE THE BUNNY), Pat Zietlow Miller’s books empower children to be their best and truest selves (BE KIND, WHEREVER YOU GO).
Family and culture are two themes that are very close to my heart, so I often brainstorm themes along these lines:
- Boy connects with grandmother while cooking Lunar New Year favorites
- Girl stands up for little sister even though she’s annoying
- Cousins from opposite sides of the globe learn to play together despite their differences
- Boy wants to grow up to be just like his dad
Do you see a trend?
Choosing Which Ideas to Pursue
So you’ve come up with 30 (or more!) ideas, now what do you do? How do you decide which story idea to pursue? Again, think about writing what you know.
In 2014, I was developing recipes for an upcoming cookbook. One of those recipes was ramen. My son, who was 4 years-old at the time, loved to eat noodles. And he was in awe of his dad and wanted to do everything his dad did. I put two and two together and came up with this storyline: Boy loves ramen and wants to cook the perfect bowl of ramen just like his dad.
Of course, you should also factor in other things, especially that you will be spending a lot of time on your manuscript (it took me 7 years of writing and revising before I finally sold mine!). You must be passionate about your idea.
Conflict
Every story needs a conflict. Conflict gives your characters obstacles they have to overcome before they can reach their goals.
So I wasn’t done yet.
To come up with a situation that kids could relate to, I did some time traveling back to my childhood. One incident stuck out: I loved (and still do!) “Hello Kitty” and other Sanrio characters. I wanted to draw these characters perfectly but I was never satisfied. There were times when I would get so frustrated and rip up my drawing paper. One day, a friend saw one of my drawings and asked if she could keep it. I was thrilled and realized that just because it wasn’t perfect doesn’t mean it couldn’t be appreciated.
Finally, I plugged everything I had into this matrix:
MC wants___ but can’t because of CONFLICT/OBSTACLE. Finally, he discovers___and achieves___.
Hiro loves ramen and wants to cook the perfect bowl of ramen just like his dad. But nothing goes according to plan and dinner is ruined. Finally, he discovers he can use his ingenuity and succeeds in preparing a meal that his family loves.
These were the guideposts I used to write RAMEN FOR EVERYONE which launches March 14, 2023!
It’s your turn now. Go ahead, mine your life and experiences and go forth and write what you know. I’m cheering for you!
Patricia Tanumihardja was born in Jakarta to Indonesian Chinese parents and raised in Singapore. As an immigrant twice-over, she’s brimming with stories to tell, and hopes that children of every color and creed will see themselves reflected in books, whether hers or other #ownvoices authors. Pat has two more picture books coming out this year: THE SUGAR PLUM BAKERS: AND THE 12 HOLIDAY TREATS (Disney-Hyperion, Fall 2023) and a picture book biography about Malaysian-born shoe designer Jimmy Choo. In addition to being a children’s book author, Pat also writes cookbooks and loves to weave food centric themes into her stories for young people. Don’t be shy to hit her up for some favorite recipes! Pat lives in the Washington D.C. Metro region with her husband and son where she enjoys bubble tea, dumpling-making, yoga and hiking. You can find her on Twitter and Instagram @ediblewords and online at EdibleWords.com.
Patricia is giving away copy of RAMEN FOR EVERYONE (Atheneum Books, when it releases on March 14th)!
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.
582 comments
Comments feed for this article
January 17, 2023 at 8:06 am
Angela Padron
Great advice – thanks for sharing!
January 17, 2023 at 8:08 am
Candace Spizzirri
Thank you, Patricia, for this great post. Congratulations on your debut! 📘🎉❤️
January 17, 2023 at 8:10 am
Colleen Owen Murphy
I love that you have incorporated your love of cooking and creating cookbooks into a picture book involving your son. I am also encouraged by the fact it took you seven years to get from concept to publication. Thanks for sharing your process.
January 17, 2023 at 8:12 am
thecrowsmap
Patricia, thanks for showing how to write what you know. And for rooting for us:)
Gail Hartman
January 17, 2023 at 8:13 am
margaretsmn
I love the image of the boy with his noodles. This looks like such a fun book to read. Writing what you know is age old good advice. You got my idea-train moving today. Thanks!
January 17, 2023 at 8:14 am
Mary Rudzinski
Great suggestions- I will start my list of experiences and see how it fits in with my themes!
January 17, 2023 at 8:16 am
michelemeleen
A good, classic reminder
January 17, 2023 at 8:16 am
hannahannkrueger
Hmmm what do I knooooooooe? 😂
January 17, 2023 at 8:17 am
Becky Walker
What a great reminder! Write what you know! Thanks!
January 17, 2023 at 8:17 am
Andrea Mack
I love how you draw on elements of your life to generate ideas! Thanks also for the handy template!
January 17, 2023 at 8:18 am
David McMullin
Wonderful, Patricia. I love how your book came together.
January 17, 2023 at 8:21 am
lynjekowsky
Thank you for reminding us to Write What You Know.
January 17, 2023 at 8:21 am
Heather Skinner
Thank you for today’s inspiration! I find the story ideas from my everyday life/the write what you know moments, are always the ideas I’m most passionate about writing. That’s something about this Storystorm challenge I’m loving- I’m more aware of those moments this month to keep track of as ideas! And congrats on your upcoming release on March 14th (which is my birthday!!!!)
January 17, 2023 at 8:23 am
lsheroan
Thank you for these ideas! I plan to spend time today mining my experiences for story gems.
January 17, 2023 at 8:23 am
janet_christensen@msn.com
This is wonderful! Thank you so much for sharing!
January 17, 2023 at 8:24 am
rebeccacolby
Write what you know is such valuable advice. Thanks for sharing. I enjoyed your story and will be using the matrix you provided to plug in my own ideas for future PBs.
January 17, 2023 at 8:26 am
ramonapersaudwrites
I’ve a ramen-loving son as well 🙂 Now to think of some interesting and tasty combinations.
January 17, 2023 at 8:27 am
yangmommy
Patricia, i loved so much about this post! I too am a foodie writer & have played around with writing kidlit-food themed tales (vs the NF I typically write). I’m going to work up an appetite today thinking about new stories–thank you!! See you on the Beltway, LOL! (I live in the DC Metro too :> We should bubble tea sometime and swap tales!:> ) Thanks again!
January 17, 2023 at 8:28 am
Brittney Jett
Patricia this looks fun! Thank you for your post and can’t wait to read your book in March.
January 17, 2023 at 8:28 am
Becca McMurdie
I love the story matrix you shared! Whoa. Gonna use that one for sure. Thank you!
January 17, 2023 at 8:30 am
Kathleen Gauer
I love your recipe for writing picture books and that Ramen for Everyone seasoned for seven years before it was ready to be published.
January 17, 2023 at 8:30 am
Susan Jobsky
Thank you for the great tips, but especially for the encouragement. I thought I was the only writer in the world to become stuck in a web of imperfect frustration. You’ve helped me to see that the story I think needs to be perfected might just be what others find hopeful and heartwarming.
January 17, 2023 at 8:32 am
Mark Bentz
Thank you, Patricia for this very informative post.
Congratulations on your many books. As a child I always wanted to fly. Now, I’m afraid of heights…hmm?
Mark
January 17, 2023 at 8:32 am
Laura Purdie Salas
Congrats on your picture book! I love hearing the back story.
January 17, 2023 at 8:33 am
Lenora Biemans (@BiemansLenora)
Love this breakdown. Congratulations and I love the title of your book!
January 17, 2023 at 8:33 am
Yolimari Garcia
Thank you for the inspiration! This post helped come up with pitch for my most recent story.
January 17, 2023 at 8:34 am
Deborah Agranat Sullivan
Many thanks, Patricia, for shedding more light on writing what you know. Lots of great ideas in your post – appreciate your sharing!
January 17, 2023 at 8:37 am
Evelyn Day
I’m off to figure out what I know! 😀 Thanks for the post and ideas! Your book looks great!
January 17, 2023 at 8:38 am
readmybook2002
Thank you for sharing about writing what you know. Your article gave me some hope that perfection is in the eye of the beholder, even with ramen.
January 17, 2023 at 8:40 am
Leah Marks
Love the food helps relationships grow concepts. Thanks for all your ideas.
January 17, 2023 at 8:41 am
amyhouts
Thanks for sharing your “recipe” to write a picture book. : ) As a picture book/cookbook author myself, I could relate! Congratulations!
January 17, 2023 at 8:43 am
Melissa Rafson Friedman
I also write about experiences closely related to me-food, family, being Jewish.
And now I want ramen 😋!!
January 17, 2023 at 8:44 am
jbdedwardscomcastnet
Thank you for sharing. Makes it a little easier if you write what you know.
January 17, 2023 at 8:44 am
Robin Brett Wechsler
Great ideas, Patricia, with very clear steps. Thanks for sharing! I’m excited to read RAMEN FOR EVERYONE.
January 17, 2023 at 8:44 am
tinamcho
I enjoyed learning about you and your books. Thank you for showing us how to comb through our life.
January 17, 2023 at 8:45 am
Linda Kay Chavez
Thanks for the encouragement to use our life story to build a story.
January 17, 2023 at 8:48 am
Karen Nespoli
Thank you for today’s inspiration. Writing what we know helps us put heart in our writing. Now where did I put my notebook? I have a few good ideas …
January 17, 2023 at 8:48 am
anchance
Your book looks fantastic! Thank you for sharing your ideas with us.
January 17, 2023 at 8:49 am
Russell Wolff
Thanks for putting this adage into context and illustrating your process. But now I can’t write because I’m craving ramen. Oh the obstacles a writer faces! 😁
January 17, 2023 at 8:54 am
Mary Beth Rice
Love the idea of combining cookbook writing with picture book stories!
January 17, 2023 at 8:54 am
Lucretia Schafroth
What a helpful, encouraging post, Patricia! Thanks for sharing your insights for writing inspiration, the matrix and your back story. Congratulations on your debut PB and the two forthcoming ones.
January 17, 2023 at 8:55 am
erinquill8
Thanks for your post, Patricia! It was a great read. And congratulations on your debut!
January 17, 2023 at 8:55 am
Jany Campana
You’ve got my ideas flowing!
January 17, 2023 at 8:55 am
pathaap
Thanks for those helpful guideposts and sharing the steps you followed in writing Ramen For Everyone!
January 17, 2023 at 8:56 am
Laurie Fishero
Great post, lots of good takeaways, thanks. Having lived in Okinawa for 3 years I am in love with ramen!
January 17, 2023 at 8:57 am
Joanna Alexandra Norland
Aspiring author wants to publish children’s book but can’t because she doesn’t believe she has anything worth saying. When she reads a blog about Ramen & writing what you know, she realises that her Jane Austen obsession just might hold the seeds to a great children’s book. (But first she heats up some noodles for lunch). Thank you for an encouraging blog post – and i can’t wait to read your book!
January 17, 2023 at 8:57 am
Lsura
Who doesn’t love a good noodle story???
January 17, 2023 at 8:59 am
Jennifer Weisse
Thank you so much, Patricia, for sharing your journey and process. It is very encouraging. Ramen for Everyone looks wonderful…I will definitely be looking for it when it comes out! Congratulations!
January 17, 2023 at 8:59 am
Reed Hilton-Eddy
Thanks for going deeper into that statement write what you know… and you had better love it!
Great formula
January 17, 2023 at 9:01 am
gayleckrause
I love to cook too. Now to travel back in time for some ideas. Thanks.
January 17, 2023 at 9:05 am
brennajeanneret
Can’t wait for this one to come out and thank you for sharing your process!
January 17, 2023 at 9:05 am
Erica Jensen Shiflet
Great advice! And as simple as it seems, I love your very straightforward matrix as a helpful tool to fully develop that nugget into a story!
January 17, 2023 at 9:08 am
Jennifer
Thank you for this post. A great reminder that we have so many ideas close to us. And it’s important to flesh out all the elements for the story and go back to that matrix to articulate the hook. And what an awesome picture of your son!
January 17, 2023 at 9:11 am
crbwriter
Passion may be the most important ingredient! Best wishes with your new release.
January 17, 2023 at 9:12 am
Kathryn LeRoy
I never thought of how my profession/work could translate into a PB. Thanks for for opening my eyes!
January 17, 2023 at 9:15 am
streetlynn
Thanks for this post! So interesting to see how your background as a food writer influenced your story.
January 17, 2023 at 9:21 am
Sallye O'Rourke
appreciate the reminder to examine my own life and passions!
January 17, 2023 at 9:25 am
Lynn Mccracken
What a wonderful list of ideas! Thank you for sharing! It is going to be a fun morning mining ideas!
January 17, 2023 at 9:26 am
effiekoliopoulos
Love this! My stories center about chronic illness/disability but my other main focus is culture. The unifying themes are love, connection and empowerment. Thanks for writing this snd congrats!!
January 17, 2023 at 9:26 am
Lynn Baldwin
Thanks for sharing your insights. I’m looking forward to reading your book.
January 17, 2023 at 9:27 am
Margaret Lea
Thanks for sharing that it took 7 years to get it published. I am definitely learning some patience in the writing business.
January 17, 2023 at 9:29 am
Andria Rosenbaum
Congratulations on your debut. I’m sure it will be a delicious read!
January 17, 2023 at 9:29 am
bgonsar
Good books are my favorite. Thanks for sharing your ideas!
January 17, 2023 at 9:30 am
Teresa Daffern
Sage advice, Patricia. Thanks for the idea examples! Can’t wait to get your book, Ramen For Everyone.
January 17, 2023 at 9:32 am
leslieevatayloe
Wow! Advice and suggestions I can you in my writing! Thank you. Best wishes in 2023.
January 17, 2023 at 9:33 am
Jeanne Pettenati
Thank you for sharing your process in finding the right way to tell your story… Seven years is a long time but it truly “takes the time it takes” (a phrase from Bethany Hegedus and the Writing Barn) to get it right. I have several manuscripts that I have been working on for at least that long. Thank you for giving me hope! Oh… and both of my Italian immigrant grandfathers worked as cooks when they came to this country. Food connects us all. I look forward to reading your book!
January 17, 2023 at 9:35 am
Jan Peck
You gave us some yummy ideas! Thank YOU!
January 17, 2023 at 9:35 am
kurtzmom548513
Patricia gave new meaning to write what you know in this post. I loved how she walked us through the brainstorm process for her book and shared her mantra for developing ideas into stories with conflict. Excellent post! Thanks so much!
January 17, 2023 at 9:36 am
rozanark
Congratulations on your scrumptious book and sharing your process! Love it!
January 17, 2023 at 9:42 am
Rona Shirdan
Great post. Thank you for sharing!
January 17, 2023 at 9:42 am
Rachel Ruiz
Congratulations! Thanks for sharing your process!
January 17, 2023 at 9:45 am
Teresa Rodrigues
Thanks for the post and ideas, Patricia! Congrats on your new book!
January 17, 2023 at 9:47 am
rosiesartventures
Patricia, thank you! You started me on some ideas before I even finished reading the article. I’m always worried that others won’t be as interested as I am in ideas gleaned from my own life, but lately, it seems my kids think I had a wildly adventurous upbringing. 😉
January 17, 2023 at 9:49 am
Joyce Uglow
What a creative treat!
January 17, 2023 at 9:52 am
Leslie Piotrowski
Thanks for sharing how RAMEN FOR EVERYONE came to life.
January 17, 2023 at 9:55 am
Karen Gardner
Thank you, Patricia. I could relate to your advice as I also draw ideas from experiences. While we may say we’ve heard “write what you know” before, that’s because it’s very good advice. Thanks for sharing how it can lead to rewarding results. Congrats on your books out this year!
January 17, 2023 at 10:01 am
Emily Gilliam
This is a great actualization of “writing what you know”… thank you!
January 17, 2023 at 10:03 am
Linda KulpTrout
Congratulations on your new book, and thank you for the great advice!
January 17, 2023 at 10:04 am
Angie B.
Wonderful and practical! Thank you so much.
January 17, 2023 at 10:05 am
annette schottenfeld
Patricia, Congratulations on your upcoming book. It sounds fabulous and heartfelt! I’m a registered dietitian and food seems to find it’s way into my picture book stories too. 🙂
January 17, 2023 at 10:06 am
Donna Rossman
Oh my goodness, now I’m inspired AND hungry! 😋😄 Thank you for such a motivating post! Congratulations on your new books. Can’t wait to read them!
January 17, 2023 at 10:06 am
Claire A. B. Freeland
Thank you – what a delicious post. Your idea-generating strategies were helpful. I look forward to reading RAMEN FOR EVERYONE.
January 17, 2023 at 10:07 am
Susan Cabael
I look forward to your book birthday soon and am especially excited to see this father-son duo in action in the kitchen.
January 17, 2023 at 10:10 am
Megan Whitaker
Sweet story and hardy advice to work on something you love as it might take awhile! Congratulations!
January 17, 2023 at 10:11 am
Melissa Johnston Miles
I love the way you show how an idea became a published book! There is so much good information here! Thank you for sharing your process.
January 17, 2023 at 10:13 am
Joan Swanson
I’m glad I’m not the only one taking years to develop my manuscripts! I love ramen too. Can’t wait to read your new book 🙂
January 17, 2023 at 10:17 am
millerritam
7 years! What an accomplishment! Congrats!
January 17, 2023 at 10:19 am
Krista Maxwell
Thank you for the advice and for sharing your story.
January 17, 2023 at 10:19 am
kathalsey
Bravo. Finding your themes to figure out what ideas really resonate is so important. Love your perseverance on this journey to publication!
January 17, 2023 at 10:19 am
Kelly Vavala
It is so hard to come up with that conflict I agree! Write what you know may be the easy part, but there isn’t always a conflict! Thank you for sharing your writing journey with us and I wish you much success!
January 17, 2023 at 10:21 am
Eileen Saunders
cute story
January 17, 2023 at 10:23 am
mona861
First off, congratulations on your book successes-write what you know! I’m passionate about a family food tradition-have tried it in rhyme, prose, but now I think I’ll take another look and try following your matrix. Thank you!
January 17, 2023 at 10:23 am
marshaelyn
Patricia, your seven-year-journey gives me hope since I’m into my fifth year of “mining” life experiences into stories. One of my dearest friends and Critique Partner (whom I met in Julie Hedlund’s “12 x 12 Challenge”) lives in Singapore. Emily Lim-Leh (a highly-published author) and I have worked together online for the last three years. I look forward to reading your upcoming book and will certainly tell Emily about it. Sending you energy and inspiration for your continued success…as well as best wishes for a Happy Chinese New Year!
January 17, 2023 at 10:26 am
Janice Woods
Great post and congratulations on RAMEN FOR EVERYONE! Thanks for sharing!
January 17, 2023 at 10:27 am
Debbie Austin
Congratulations on Ramen for Everyone! Thank you for sharing your journey. It inspires me to keep working and revising.
January 17, 2023 at 10:27 am
Patricia Franz
Thank you for showing us how it can be done!
January 17, 2023 at 10:28 am
jasmithwriter
Following along your line of thought to develop an idea is incredibly helpful. Thank you!
January 17, 2023 at 10:32 am
Toni Miller
The main advice, to write what you know, is common enough. But the advice to add layers and to keep open to where that can bring you, is less so. And very appreciated. You’ve given me something to mull over… Thank you, Patricia.
January 17, 2023 at 10:33 am
Gabriella Aldeman
I’ve heard this advice before, but something clicked this time. Thank you for sharing your process. Your book looks delicious!
January 17, 2023 at 10:33 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
What a tasty treat Pat! Looking forward to this one and your other 2 titles too! Congrats!
January 17, 2023 at 10:33 am
Anne-Margreet
Thank your for sharing your inspiring process!
January 17, 2023 at 10:34 am
Natasha
Thanks, Pat. It takes time to write a post and all the Storystorm contributors remind me daily that this is a supportive community.
Congratulations on all your books! Your mining, mashing, and hard work are paying off.
January 17, 2023 at 10:35 am
mdk45
Thanks, Patricia, for reminding us to add those layers to our stories.
January 17, 2023 at 10:36 am
heatherstigall
Thanks for sharing your tips on how to use what you know to create a story!
January 17, 2023 at 10:48 am
clairebobrow
Love the tips on tying story ideas to themes that resonate. I look forward to reading your book, Patricia – congrats! And please pass the ramen!
January 17, 2023 at 10:49 am
Joy Wieder
Love the photo of the boy (your son?) eating noodles! Thanks for the reminder to use our own lives as inspiration.
January 17, 2023 at 10:50 am
Loretta Schrader
Greta advice! Looking forward to your book and hope it has a ramen recipe in it 😉
January 17, 2023 at 10:55 am
Jay
Thanks, Pat, your journey gives me hope and ideas!
January 17, 2023 at 10:57 am
Midge Smith
Thank you so much, Patricia, for sharing your process–you’ve given me some great ideas!
January 17, 2023 at 10:57 am
Kim A Parfitt
I appreciate the matrix to pull it all together and will add that to my Storystorm 2023 spreadsheet.
January 17, 2023 at 11:00 am
JF Hall Writes
It’s funny — sometimes I see writing as my opportunity to balance away from my left-brained, analytical work, so I wouldn’t have thought to merge these two worlds. I usually look around outside of the work world for inspiration or think back to my childhood. This gives me some great food for thought (pun absolutely intended!). Thank you!!
January 17, 2023 at 11:01 am
Melissa L Lettis
Thanks for sharing the “what happens after the initial idea” stages! Great steps to get a story shape started!
January 17, 2023 at 11:04 am
Kim A Larson
Thanks for all the helpful information. Showing your process in steps was easy to follow.
January 17, 2023 at 11:07 am
Angel Gantnier
Thank you for the inspiration =)
January 17, 2023 at 11:08 am
kirstenbockblog
Very inspiring! And now I’m hungry for Ramen…
January 17, 2023 at 11:11 am
Laurie Seaford
Congratulations on all three of your books! Thank you for sharing your great plot template and your RAMEN FOR EVERYONE journey. Simply delicious.
January 17, 2023 at 11:13 am
Sarah Blotevogel
Thank you for demonstrating some tangible examples of “writing what you know”. That was definitely helpful!
January 17, 2023 at 11:14 am
laureannawrites
Thank you for sharing your creative formula! My math brain is happy.
January 17, 2023 at 11:17 am
Karen Elise Finch (@nestofbooks)
Thank you, Patricia, for the encouragement to keep mining and polishing. Even if it takes years upon years. It’s beautiful to see how your love of family, culture, and food inspire your work!
January 17, 2023 at 11:17 am
Sandra Wilson
Great format to start any story idea from! And “Just because it isn’t perfect doesn’t mean it can’t be appreciated” really struck my heart.
January 17, 2023 at 11:17 am
Sandy Lowe
I’ve also been working on a story for *at least* seven years. Thanks for the encouragement!
January 17, 2023 at 11:17 am
jumpbaby
Love seeing how you plugged your idea into your matrix/pitch.
~ Cheryl Johnson
January 17, 2023 at 11:20 am
Elizabeth Meyer zu Heringdorf
Reading your post made me a. hungry, and b. excited to go mine my childhood for food-related and other experiences! Thank you!
January 17, 2023 at 11:23 am
Jessica Coupé
Thanks for the inspiration!
January 17, 2023 at 11:24 am
katiemillsgiorgio
So great…thank you for sharing! We love ramen at our house!
January 17, 2023 at 11:31 am
Anne LeBlanc 🇨🇦😊❤️📚libraries✍️🎤🕺⛏️Go Leafs! (@AnneLeBlanc2)
Thank you for sharing your method for generating ideas -with examples. Many of them resonated with me. I look forward to reading your book!
January 17, 2023 at 11:34 am
kellyclasenwriter
These ideas are so logical and clearly presented. Thanks for the tips! I have added your book to my list of must-reads!
January 17, 2023 at 11:36 am
Jennifer Roman
Interesting way to combine your current life with your childhood struggle. Thanks for sharing!
January 17, 2023 at 11:37 am
Melissa Stoller
I love your behind the scenes look at your process! Can’t wait to read ALL your upcoming books! Congratulations!
January 17, 2023 at 11:42 am
Shirley fadden
Love your list of story ideas and thought process to adding conflict while honoring your own interests.
January 17, 2023 at 11:42 am
kerisagreene
Thanks for sharing your process, can’t wait for your book to come out!
January 17, 2023 at 11:43 am
Becki Kidd
Great pairing ideas, Patricia. Thanks.
January 17, 2023 at 11:46 am
Rachelle Burk
What a cute idea! I love a cultural book that connects us through food.
January 17, 2023 at 11:49 am
sue macartney
Great post Patricia! Thanks for sharing these tips. Looking forward to reading Ramen for Everyone!
January 17, 2023 at 11:49 am
Kristin Collins
Thanks for providing some good tips for how to find ideas for stories. Congratulations on your books coming out this year!
January 17, 2023 at 11:50 am
lizricewrites
Thank you for sharing your story and writing tips!
January 17, 2023 at 11:51 am
judyrubin13
Thank you, Patricia, for sharing your idea techniques. What a treasure trove of ideas you shared.
January 17, 2023 at 11:53 am
Rochelle Y Melander
That is the cutest picture ever! And thank you for the inspiration.
January 17, 2023 at 11:54 am
Ann Driscoll
Love that photo! Love seeing how you weave your love of food into your stories. And it was especially useful to me to see the freewheeling types of ideas you come up with. I just realized I need to loosen up more. I think I’ve only been paying attention to more fully formed ideas and I didn’t understand what I was missing until I saw your post. Thank you for this gift!
January 17, 2023 at 11:58 am
Maria Altizer
Thank you for the advice! I love how you incorporate cooking/food into your stories.
January 17, 2023 at 11:59 am
bevbaird
Congratulations on your book. Thanks for this great advice and inspiration.
January 17, 2023 at 12:01 pm
Katie Marie
Thank you for sharing your story. RAMEN FOR EVERYONE sounds delightful!
January 17, 2023 at 12:01 pm
maureenegan
Delicious!
January 17, 2023 at 12:01 pm
dedradavis
Seven years! That gives me and my four years HOPE! Congratulations! Your book looks delicious!!
January 17, 2023 at 12:02 pm
Pamela S Swanson
Congratulations on your book. Thanks for the idea of taking what you know, especially from childhood.
January 17, 2023 at 12:03 pm
Christine Letizia
Thank you for breaking down the process of how to incorporate your ideas into the main theme of the book!
January 17, 2023 at 12:03 pm
mlyablonaolcom
Such yummy book ideas! 🙂
January 17, 2023 at 12:05 pm
Diane Mittler
Also, nothing better than seeing bits of people and things I love in the stories I write! Those warm my heart!❤️
January 17, 2023 at 12:06 pm
robincurrie1
Wow – what a lot of learning in your bowl of noodles! Thnsk for taking us thorough your thought process.
January 17, 2023 at 12:09 pm
Connie Jameson
What great ideas and wonderful examples you shared. Congratulations on your book!
January 17, 2023 at 12:14 pm
suzanbh
Congratulations on your book! And thanks for sharing!
January 17, 2023 at 12:16 pm
Laura Wippell
7 years of perseverance – that is amazing! Congrats on your book, Patricia! Your matrix was really helpful and I think it will also help me write pitches in the future. Thanks for the motivation and inspiration!
January 17, 2023 at 12:17 pm
greengirlblueplanet
I have recently come to this realization about writing what I know and I already feel more passionate as I go into revisions. Thank you for today’s blog post!
January 17, 2023 at 12:17 pm
claudia sloan
I much enjoyed reading this post and thank you for very specific steps. I also loved your son’s picture enjoying his ramen 🙂 …super cute! I’m a ramen fan too. Thank you and congratulations on your upcoming PB!
January 17, 2023 at 12:19 pm
Amy Mucci
You always hear write what you know, but love how you describe it here! Your book sounds great!
January 17, 2023 at 12:21 pm
mightyoaks3
Thank you for reminding me that food and cooking can carry many writable memories, too.
January 17, 2023 at 12:22 pm
Annie Guerra
So true! Like that old truism, “Write what you know.”
January 17, 2023 at 12:22 pm
Carlie Cornell
I love ramen. Love your story and approach. Thank you.
January 17, 2023 at 12:23 pm
Sheri Radovich
Thank you for some new idea creation topics. I liked the steps you suggested. I have trouble pin-pointing what I know and can make fun stories from.
January 17, 2023 at 12:26 pm
Donna Marx
Your post was so validating for me as many of my ideas revolve around my grandsons. Continued luck with your success!
January 17, 2023 at 12:27 pm
Christine Ottaviano Shestak
I love the idea of showing kids that they don’t have to be perfect
January 17, 2023 at 12:28 pm
Ellen Huynh
Thank you so much for this. I am going to an event at my local bookstore in April that Shilo will be at promoting this book!
January 17, 2023 at 12:35 pm
mariearden
I love your recipe for writing picture book stories. It’s definitely one I will cut out and save for trying out new story ideas. Thank-you!!!
January 17, 2023 at 12:37 pm
blairmoorebooks
Oh, this is wonderful. What a cute photo of your son—and now I’m craving Ramen myself 🙂 Thank you for sharing this inspiration and encouragement, Patricia!
January 17, 2023 at 12:37 pm
Lindsey Aduskevich
Thank you for this inspiring post, Patricia! Your book sounds lovely and is making me both hungry and ready to write!!
January 17, 2023 at 12:41 pm
Elizabeth Wilcox Saba
Thank you! I love this post and ramen.
January 17, 2023 at 12:45 pm
geigerlin
Ramen joy, inspired by Dad with love! Wonderful post, Patricia! Thank you!
January 17, 2023 at 12:49 pm
mommamoocow
I like your matrix idea. Good to hear you kept at it for seven years. My stories are taking their sweet time to get noticed.
January 17, 2023 at 12:52 pm
Linda Staszak
A great example of write what you know and never give up! Thanks for a fun and information-filled post!
January 17, 2023 at 12:59 pm
Lyn Miller-Lachmann
Congratulations on RAMEN FOR EVERYONE! And thank you for your inspiring post!
January 17, 2023 at 1:01 pm
laurelneme
Nice too hear your thought process. And love the picture of your son eating ramen!!
January 17, 2023 at 1:08 pm
danielledufayet
Such great advice -write what you know… because who better than you to write it, if you know it? And who doesn’t love ramen? Congrats!
January 17, 2023 at 1:08 pm
hansenjc13
Thank you for the tips! Now I want to go eat a bowl of ramen! Congrats on your debut!
January 17, 2023 at 1:09 pm
Shannon LaPuma
Thank you for diving deep into write what you know! Congratulations on your upcoming books.
January 17, 2023 at 1:14 pm
Sharon A Putnam
Great post, Karen! Thank you for giving a peek at your writing process and for the encouragement to “write what we know!”
I love your “recipe” for writing picture books!
January 17, 2023 at 1:16 pm
Leah Moser
Thank you for the post! Looking forward to your debut picture book!
January 17, 2023 at 1:16 pm
Sherry Smith
Thanks Patricia for your post and good luck with your upcoming release of Ramen for Everyone. You sparked a couple of ideas that I wrote down in my Storystorm idea log.
January 17, 2023 at 1:18 pm
elizabethdaghfal
So excited—got a really solid story idea while reading this post 😀 Can’t wait to start fleshing this one out. Thank you for the suggestions!
January 17, 2023 at 1:19 pm
Danielle Hammelef
Thank you for the post and for the story “recipe” I can use to make sure I’ve found the heart of my story idea before I begin drafting.
January 17, 2023 at 1:21 pm
Adriana Bergstrom
Oh I like the conflict plug-in idea!
January 17, 2023 at 1:23 pm
Gabi Snyder
Thanks for this fabulous advice, Patricia! And congrats on your upcoming books!
January 17, 2023 at 1:25 pm
Heidi Yates
Thank you for sharing, Patricia! Great advice!
January 17, 2023 at 1:25 pm
Amita Snyder
I loved reading about your process. Thank you!
January 17, 2023 at 1:25 pm
nowthattherestime281137688
Thank you for sharing! Your post is very inspirational! I love the simplicity of the matrix you shared and plan to use it as I begin to further explore some of my ideas.
January 17, 2023 at 1:27 pm
rosecappelli
Thanks for sharing and congratulations on your debut! It’s always inspiring to see how stories get into the world.
January 17, 2023 at 1:27 pm
Mary Zychowicz
Thanks for sharing your ideas and process. Cute photo of your son! Congratulations on your debut picture book. I look forward to reading it.
January 17, 2023 at 1:29 pm
Karen Gebbia
thanks for such a yummy post! such a universal childhood concept in such a deliciously specific context 🙂
January 17, 2023 at 1:29 pm
Stephanie D Jones
Patricia, your ideas inspired me this morning! Thanks.
January 17, 2023 at 1:30 pm
Christine Van Zandt, author of A BRIEF HISTORY OF UNDERPANTS
Thanks for the helpful formula. Seeing it in print reinforces a way to think through stories. Congratulations on your book! I can’t wait to read it, sounds right up my alley.
January 17, 2023 at 1:31 pm
Deborah Ishii
Thank you for sharing your ideas about writing what you know. I’m going to plug in some of my story ideas to your matrix and see what happens!
January 17, 2023 at 1:36 pm
Melissa Koosmann
Thanks for the suggestions, and for sharing your process. Seven years sounds about right…
January 17, 2023 at 1:36 pm
Kathleen Clark
I just love this. Thank you for sharing, Patricia! We live on a centennial farm and there is always a story just waiting to be written!
January 17, 2023 at 1:37 pm
Stephanie D Jones
Thanks Patricia! Your thoughts spurred some great ideas for me to play with today!
January 17, 2023 at 1:38 pm
Carol Gwin Nelson
Thanks for sharing. I love the way you put cooking and food into your story.
January 17, 2023 at 1:38 pm
Cathy Lentes
Well, in addition to craving noodles…I now have some work to do exploring my passions and themes. Love the pics, too! Thanks!
January 17, 2023 at 1:39 pm
Lauri Fortino
I love ramen! Congratulations on your delightful debut!
January 17, 2023 at 1:39 pm
Jaime Petrucci
Thank you Patricia! I love food themed children’s books.❤
January 17, 2023 at 1:40 pm
Shirley
Loved this post. Thank you for your helpful suggestions!! Congratulations on all of your books and stories! Can’t wait to read them.
January 17, 2023 at 1:42 pm
Heidi Chupp
Thank you, Patricia! What an encouraging reminder that what makes us unique in the world is where our treasure of stories is hidden. 🙂
January 17, 2023 at 1:46 pm
Janet Frenck Sheets
Your matrix looks useful for writing query letters. Thanks for sharing!
January 17, 2023 at 1:49 pm
hcvagley
Hi, from the DC area!
January 17, 2023 at 1:51 pm
Monica Acker
Wonderful advice. Congratulations on your book!
January 17, 2023 at 1:52 pm
Lorraine
7 years. Thanks for the encouragement to be persistent and revise until you get it right. Much appreciation!
January 17, 2023 at 1:57 pm
Thelia Hutchinson
Excellent post. I’ve been playing around with a few story ideas revolving around food. This post is definitely the push/encouragement I need to pull through and get the story flowing. This post incorporates the mindset from another post this Storystorm to get those creative juices flowing. I am looking forward to this book.
January 17, 2023 at 1:57 pm
Pamela Harrison
Thank you for this wonderful advice, Patricia! Congratulations on your new book!
January 17, 2023 at 1:57 pm
cbcole
I love the idea of using memories from your own life to come up with topics to write about.
January 17, 2023 at 2:00 pm
kathleenannajacobs
Please write a picture book about bubble tea!
January 17, 2023 at 2:00 pm
martyfindley
Thank you for this. I thought of an idea from my childhood and I’ve already structured my story by using your matrix!
January 17, 2023 at 2:00 pm
valerieschultz023gmailcom
Ideas are tumbling out! Thank you for sharing. Looking forward to your book.
January 17, 2023 at 2:04 pm
jscratchley
Thank you for a great reminder and examples of writing what we know. This sparked some ideas for me! 🙂
January 17, 2023 at 2:12 pm
libbydemmon
I love these simple, methodical steps. Thanks for sharing!
January 17, 2023 at 2:14 pm
Charles Tevino
RAMEN – for me!
Congrats on the recipe for a ramen PB:)
January 17, 2023 at 2:16 pm
Kamalani Hurley
What a cutie pie your son is! And that’s exactly what I look like when I eat ramen, too lol. These are wonderful, practical suggestions. Thank you for a great post, Patricia!
January 17, 2023 at 2:19 pm
Susan Luchetta
I love food too and was struggling to find a way to to come up with a story. I love the matrix! Thanks!
January 17, 2023 at 2:20 pm
Lisa Chow
I love the idea of writing in a broad topic. Sometimes I get too scattered chasing what I think I “should” write instead of what I want to write. Thank you for the reminder to write was is true. 🙂
January 17, 2023 at 2:28 pm
kiwijenny
Hmmmm white bait fritters think whole baby fish with eyes in batter.. Tuatua..think clams …fejoa..think green skinned fruit with luscious juicy insides that taste like nothing else.. can you make a book you can eat?
January 17, 2023 at 2:40 pm
Allison Fleischman
I’ve posted your matrix by my desk! And now I’m hungry for ramen…
January 17, 2023 at 2:43 pm
Martha Hollenhorst
Thank you for sharing your ideas. I have a background working in food, too, as a former cake decorator. I haven’t mined this part of my life for ideas, but immediately thought of something after reading your suggestions. I think that people in this country need to learn about other cultures and something as simple as cooking noodles can be an entryway to learning about other people.
January 17, 2023 at 2:45 pm
Andrea Yomtob
Thank you for the “work from what you know” tips – congrats on your book 👍
January 17, 2023 at 2:47 pm
kidlitgail
What could be better than stories mixed with food…delicious!
January 17, 2023 at 2:54 pm
Susan F Good
I love the idea of writing about what we know and what is important to us.
January 17, 2023 at 3:01 pm
ktlicense - Kris Tarantino
Thank you for the tip of working from what we know.
January 17, 2023 at 3:02 pm
Anne C. Bromley
Thank you for the great tips and reminders. I look forward to seeing your new book soon!
January 17, 2023 at 3:18 pm
seahorsecoffeeelektra79018
Food, family, friends…what a delightful combination. Add a memory, mix well. Put aside until a story rises.
January 17, 2023 at 3:20 pm
Natalie Lynn Tanner
PATRICIA: THANK YOU for the INSPIRATION to DIG INTO our own lives and mine for stories that are just WAITING to be told from our own life and experiences. A GREAT reminder that sometimes we need to research ourselves instead of subjects that are unfamiliar to us. Sometimes we can be our own BEST resource! THANK YOU!
January 17, 2023 at 3:23 pm
Emmeline Forrestal
Thank you for taking us through the process of creating this book! Incidentally, now I’m hungry for ramen 😉
January 17, 2023 at 3:28 pm
Jen Subra
Thanks for this great framework to hang my brainstorming ideas on! Your book sounds delightful!
January 17, 2023 at 3:29 pm
Lisa Atkinson
Thanks for your story template! I used it for each story idea today- it helped me create more well-rounded/fleshed out ideas. I also loved reading about your process in putting together Ramen for Everyone. Congrats on your debut and upcoming books!!
January 17, 2023 at 3:37 pm
4solivia
Thank you Patricia for sharing your thoughts on this wonderful book, and your writing process as well! Severe informative.
http://www.sharonoblumbergauthor.com
January 17, 2023 at 3:38 pm
lindilumens
Love your matrix! It takes the whole thing down to the basics, and makes you look at your stories in a new light! Thanks for sharing.
January 17, 2023 at 3:38 pm
Laura Bower
Thank you Patricia! I love the inspiration behind this book–so sweet that your son wanted to cook a perfect bowl of ramen like his dad! I love the picture of him eating ramen and the illustrations in the book! Congratulations! I can’t wait to read it (and your other books when they come out!)
January 17, 2023 at 3:46 pm
Judy Bradbury
What a fun post, brimming with positivity, and a great, useful matrix: MC wants___ but can’t because of CONFLICT/OBSTACLE. Finally, he discovers___and achieves___. Thank you!
January 17, 2023 at 3:47 pm
Maria Johnson
Oh my gosh, this post hits so close to home. Thank you! I love writing about family, culture, and food. I’m currently querying a book about making phyllo dough with a Greek grandmother. This was hugely helpful for seeing how pieces of my experience and background can fit together in “the matrix,” as you say. I can’t wait to get my hands on your books and recipes. =) Ramen is one of my favorites!
January 17, 2023 at 3:48 pm
Sarah Lynne John
A great reminder of the basics of storytelling! Congrats on your books!
January 17, 2023 at 3:48 pm
Daryl Gottier
Thanks so much. I took a few things that I know, added a big theme, fit it into a pitch with conflict and I was off and running!!
January 17, 2023 at 3:48 pm
Susan Eyerman
Nice post with good advice. It also made me hungry.
January 17, 2023 at 3:48 pm
jimchaize1
Day after day after day such inspiring posts. Very helpful to hear how the process of getting a PB published worked for you. Thanks, Patricia.
January 17, 2023 at 3:53 pm
Sue (Susan Uhlig) (she/her) (@susanuhlig)
Great post!
January 17, 2023 at 3:55 pm
authordebradaugherty
Congratulations, Patricia, on your upcoming book. Thank you for this great post.
January 17, 2023 at 3:55 pm
Suhasini Gupta
Congratulations Patricia, on your success, and thanks for sharing your story.
January 17, 2023 at 3:57 pm
Paul Brassard
Patricia,
What a terrific example of write what you know! Congratulations on your picture book successes this year.
January 17, 2023 at 4:06 pm
Mary
Tying an idea to a theme is the tricky part for me. I have a million ideas, but what it comes down to is finding the one that gets gassed up and heads out the garage door!
January 17, 2023 at 4:07 pm
Linda Silvestri
Thank you for showing examples of how the “writing what you know” idea pertains to children’s books. It kind of smacked me over the head in an “Oh! Right!” kind of way. Also, how you time traveled back to childhood and found a conflict from another area to add to the original idea. Love it! Thanks again!
January 17, 2023 at 4:10 pm
Lauren Barbieri
Thank you for sharing this story behind your story! Congratulations on Ramen for Everyone. I’m looking forward to reading it!
January 17, 2023 at 4:30 pm
Christy Matthes
Thank you for sharing the inspiration for your story and the story matrix reminder.
January 17, 2023 at 4:34 pm
Diane O'Neill
Thanks so much for the inspiration and the matrix!
January 17, 2023 at 4:36 pm
Jenny Shipkowski
Thank you for sharing that formula! What a great way to describe a story in a concise way!
January 17, 2023 at 4:43 pm
Amanda Z
Great advice in this post! Tying all our ideas to a theme is the hard work!
January 17, 2023 at 4:45 pm
sareenmclay
Thank you for sharing your ideas!
January 17, 2023 at 4:45 pm
jpeters6248
Thank you for this advice. You always hear that saying write what you know, but you helped me see a little more clearly how I could apply that to picture book ideas. I think I will be making a long list of ideas today.
January 17, 2023 at 4:52 pm
Trine Grillo
To Write What We Know is very good advice.
January 17, 2023 at 4:53 pm
Manju Beth Howard 🌻 (@ManjuBeth)
Thanks, Patricia! All my stories have something of me in them. The picture of your son made me smile.
January 17, 2023 at 4:55 pm
Poupette
Thanks for the magic recipe (MC wants___ but can’t because of CONFLICT/OBSTACLE. Finally, he discovers___and achieves___), and congratulations on Ramen!
January 17, 2023 at 4:57 pm
Rosi Hollinbeck
Great advice. Thanks for the post.
January 17, 2023 at 5:02 pm
Jeannette Suhr
Thank you, Patricia, for sharing your journey and reminding me to explore my past for story ideas. (I actually thought of three while reading your post.)
I look forward to reading your books and I wish you continued success with your writing.
And can I please have your recipe for egg rolls?
January 17, 2023 at 5:12 pm
Cheryl Coate
Thanks so much for your insight! I love your magic recipe….it molds itself perfectly into a graphic organizer!
January 17, 2023 at 5:24 pm
Leslie Santamaria
So many solid suggestions here. Thank you, Patricia, and congratulations!
January 17, 2023 at 5:31 pm
Barbara Farland
I will definitely use your matrix to plan my own stories. Thank you!
January 17, 2023 at 5:48 pm
Abby Wooldridge
Your post definitely sparked some ideas for me (and it made me hungry, too!)! 🙂 Thank you for the inspiration, Patricia, and congratulations on your book!
January 17, 2023 at 5:52 pm
Parvati Patil
Patricia, thank you for the ideas!
January 17, 2023 at 5:52 pm
Jan Milusich
Congratulations on your upcoming book and the ones following it! Thanks for the suggestions!
January 17, 2023 at 6:00 pm
Bettie Boswell
Great ideas for mining your life. I have used things I’ve experienced and had my characters act similarly.
January 17, 2023 at 6:04 pm
Srividhya Venkat
Thank you for sharing your tips and the making of your delicious book (and ramen) with everyone! 🙂
January 17, 2023 at 6:07 pm
Amanda Perry
We love ramen at our house. Can’t wait to check out your book!
January 17, 2023 at 6:11 pm
Sara Ackerman
Congratulations on your book! It’s so neat to see your past Storystorm ideas.
January 17, 2023 at 6:11 pm
Marlena Leach
I like the idea of putting two things together then adding “what I know” to it. Wonderful post. Thank you. Congrats on your new book!
January 17, 2023 at 6:12 pm
marty
Thank you, Patricia, for giving us a way to cull the ideas we come up with. It’s too easy to overlook ourselves and what we know in the process of polishing our craft. Tara, thank you for inviting Patricia to Storystorm central!
January 17, 2023 at 6:15 pm
Ana Archi
Thanks for the tip to mine your life, along with a winning formula!
January 17, 2023 at 6:15 pm
vgraboski61gmailcom
Thanks, Patricia, for the inspiration to not only come up with ideas but to take them to the next level. Can’t wait to read your upcoming book!
January 17, 2023 at 6:18 pm
Kristi Mahoney
Thanks for the great post, Patricia! Love the idea of the matrix you used. I’m saving that to help me work through some of my manuscripts.
January 17, 2023 at 6:20 pm
Lisa M. Horn
Thanks, Patricia! Your post definitely has me thinking of a lot of ideas. Congratulations on your upcoming book! (P.S. I love ramen too!)
January 17, 2023 at 6:21 pm
Teresa 何 Robeson
I’m drooling waiting for this book! Thanks for the step-by-step of how you came to write this story, Pat.
January 17, 2023 at 6:23 pm
Sarah Hetu-Radny
Great post, thank you Patricia! (You’re making me hungry….)
January 17, 2023 at 6:24 pm
Peggy Dobbs
Thank you for sharing your process and the matrix. And congratulations on your publishing success!
January 17, 2023 at 6:38 pm
Katie Berner
Congratulations on your upcoming book, I can’t wait to read it! And thanks for the helpful post, I love the matrix!
January 17, 2023 at 6:43 pm
Sue Heavenrich
Great post! I love the idea of a boy making the perfect noodle bowl for dad.
January 17, 2023 at 6:47 pm
littleseedsread
Congratulations on your upcoming book. I look forward to reading it. And thank you for this inspiring post. I love the idea of mining our own life experiences.
January 17, 2023 at 6:47 pm
Pam Gelman
Wonderful examples to inspire brainstorming. Can’t wait to Ramen For Everyone to my preschoolers. Thank you for this post!
January 17, 2023 at 6:56 pm
Jessica Milo
Can’t wait to read RAMEN FOR EVERYONE and I enjoyed reading about how this story came to be!! Thanks for sharing!
January 17, 2023 at 6:56 pm
Julie Reich
Great reminder to write what you know. Congrats on your upcoming books. And what an adorable kid!
January 17, 2023 at 7:00 pm
Aly Kenna
Thank you for your post Patricia. It was inspirational and honest. Looking forward to reading Ramen for Everyone 🙂
January 17, 2023 at 7:02 pm
jbbower
Congratulations on your upcoming book release! Thank you for an inspiring post. Sometimes, work and life get so busy that we forget to take a look at the things that are right under our noses.
January 17, 2023 at 7:02 pm
stephaniemstories
Good advice. Congrats on your book!
January 17, 2023 at 7:04 pm
Tonnye Fletcher
Congratulations on your upcoming book! You can’t go wrong with Ramen :-). Yumm! Thanks for all the tips and tricks for writing what we know! Hmmm, definitely got my brain whirring!
January 17, 2023 at 7:13 pm
EmmieRWerner
❤️❤️❤️
January 17, 2023 at 7:14 pm
Shawna Tenney
Thanks for sharing your story journey, and what a great little formula to remember!
January 17, 2023 at 7:17 pm
Lisa Johnston Hancock
Yay! Thank you for sharing your process. Shiho is a fabulous illustrator too. I can’t wait to see the book!
January 17, 2023 at 7:21 pm
Franny G
Thanks for the reminder to write what we know — and good luck with your forthcoming PB!
January 17, 2023 at 7:27 pm
Tarja Nevala
Thank you. I will always remember your words, “must be passionate about your idea”.
January 17, 2023 at 7:30 pm
Tara Cerven
I love your idea of using real childhood experiences and doing a mashup. Brilliant! Thank you for the great tips. Your book looks adorable 😊
January 17, 2023 at 7:38 pm
Barbara Senenman
Congratulations on your upcoming book! It’s time to mine for some golden ideas from past! Thank you.
January 17, 2023 at 7:38 pm
bookfish1
Congratulations on your book. Thanks for the template.
January 17, 2023 at 7:40 pm
Bethanny Parker
Ramen for Everyone sounds like a great story. Congrats.
January 17, 2023 at 7:42 pm
CatherineBrewer
Patricia this was great advice! Thank you and Congratulations on your book!
January 17, 2023 at 7:46 pm
Danya Vasquez David
Thank you for sharing your journey and your tips! Super helpful. And- congrats on your BOOK!!!
January 17, 2023 at 7:53 pm
Gayle Veitenheimer
What a great post! Thanks for sharing! And I love ramen.
January 17, 2023 at 8:00 pm
Colleen Dabney
Thank you for the tips.
January 17, 2023 at 8:05 pm
Jennifer Mills Barnes
I picked up so many tips from your substantive post today – from brainstorming ideas and writing about what you know to showing conflict. Thanks so much for sharing such inspiring ideas! I’m looking forward to reading your book. Congratulations!
January 17, 2023 at 8:09 pm
Deb
Thank you for sharing this, I tend to be all over the place with ideas but putting in the way of write what you know makes sense to expand on ideas.
January 17, 2023 at 8:21 pm
ashleehashman
Thanks so much for this wonderful advice, Patricia!
January 17, 2023 at 8:22 pm
Liz Godfrey
Congrats on “Ramen for Everyone” – I look forward to reading it! Thanks for sharing your tips on writing what you know and helping me thinking of this approach in new ways!
January 17, 2023 at 8:33 pm
Sharlin Craig
I love how you’re writing what you know and sharing your knowledge about food and culture through your beautiful stories! Thanks for the reminder to write what I know and to combine different themes within what I know.
January 17, 2023 at 8:34 pm
Echo Roben
Patricia, thank you for adding the spice of life to the children’s book writing mix (such a simple, straightforward ingredient!)
January 17, 2023 at 8:38 pm
Alison McGauley (@AlisonMcgauley)
Thanks for this idea organizer! I know I can often struggle with having an idea but not knowing what the conflict will be, so this is helpful for getting me organized. Thank you!
January 17, 2023 at 8:42 pm
Cheryl Simon (@cmsimon18)
I can’t wait to read your book! Thank you for the great suggestions!
January 17, 2023 at 8:49 pm
nicolesalterbraun
Thank you. And your son is adorable!
January 17, 2023 at 8:59 pm
Terry Talley
Thank you for the simple recipe of idea + personal connection to build a story that rings true.
January 17, 2023 at 9:06 pm
nancykkkkk
This seems so obvious yet also seems hard to make interesting to kids. I’ll work on it. Thanks for the suggestion. Nancy
January 17, 2023 at 9:08 pm
alicia shawn gagnon
YUM! Thank you for sharing your passions for food, family and writing.
January 17, 2023 at 9:09 pm
Elizabeth McBride
Choosing to write about something you already enjoy is such a wise suggestion! Like you said, one might be working with that manuscript for many years! Your ideas are much appreciated Pat, and your fill-in-the-blank story arc is especially helpful! Thank you so much!
January 17, 2023 at 9:18 pm
marthaej
My children have recently discovered ramen and are obsessed!
Thank you for sharing what inspires you and your writing process.
January 17, 2023 at 9:31 pm
migratingmoosegmailcom
I love the matrix you summarized! I’m going back through all my ideas so far to make sure I’ve developed enough of a story idea.
January 17, 2023 at 9:33 pm
Buffy Silverman
Great and delicious tips–and congratulations on your upcoming books!
January 17, 2023 at 9:38 pm
migratingmoosegmailcom
I live the matrix you’ve outlines here!
January 17, 2023 at 9:45 pm
migratingmoosegmailcom
Love the matrix
January 17, 2023 at 9:59 pm
madisu2021
I’ve heard a few of these strategies before, but your writing simplified the process. I’ve tried your “big picture themes” with my stories and it feels effective. In addition, I appreciate your description of, “7 years of writing and revising before (you) sold (yours)”. Thank you and congratulations!
January 17, 2023 at 10:18 pm
8catpaws
So every bowl of story dough needs a dash of conflict to make it grow…
January 17, 2023 at 10:22 pm
Sophie Furman
I love this so much! I love food and cooking too, and once in another lifetime wanted to be a cook! 🙂 Amazing to incorporate this passion into my manuscripts, along with favorite themes also of friendship and such. Thank you so much for the lovely post, it also made me very hungry… especially for some yummy ramen!!! 🙂
January 17, 2023 at 10:25 pm
Hélène Sabourin
Great way to get started.
January 17, 2023 at 10:29 pm
susanzonca
Thank you for sharing your process. It was especially good to hear the need for conflict.
January 17, 2023 at 10:42 pm
sabrinashah84
This one really resonates with me, being a food writer too. What a great way to structure those ideas into something more tangible. Thank you 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
January 17, 2023 at 10:48 pm
seschipper
Thank you for sharing your ideas! “Write what you know and be passionate!” Words of wisdom! 🙂
January 17, 2023 at 10:54 pm
Cathy Velasco
How wonderful! Thank you for your encouragement to dig into our lives for great story ideas. Can’t wait to read your new book! Ramen Party!
January 17, 2023 at 11:03 pm
Steena Hernandez
Love this post! Best advice… write what you know. Thank you for sharing, and I can’t wait to read RAMEN FOR EVERYONE! Congrats!
January 17, 2023 at 11:04 pm
Kathy Doherty
Thanks, Patricia! What an inspiring post!
January 17, 2023 at 11:10 pm
Ashley Wu
So inspiring! I will be incorporating ideas from my life into my story brainstorming.
January 17, 2023 at 11:14 pm
su
Congrats on your debut book! My son’s favorite food is ramen 🙂 Thanks for your writing advice, too.
January 17, 2023 at 11:18 pm
Elayne
Great ideas! And, of course, the thing you know could be a big feeling or a unique way of looking at the world–like your own brand of humor!
January 17, 2023 at 11:20 pm
Rhonda DeChambeau
Terrific prompt- turns out so many ideas popped up once I started thinking about my own experiences and then how I felt about things as a kid. Thanks for sharing!
January 17, 2023 at 11:21 pm
Dannielle Viera
‘Write what you know’ is my favourite writing advice!
January 17, 2023 at 11:21 pm
Janie Reinart
Patricia, I am sharing your post with my granddaughter. She wants to be a baker or a writer and we keep saying you can do both! Congrats on your book babies.
January 17, 2023 at 11:24 pm
jenwritespbs
Thank you for your examples about writing what you know. So helpful. And congratulations on your books!
January 17, 2023 at 11:33 pm
writersideup
Patricia, going by your idea list, you’ve got SUCH a creative way to approach food! 😀 ❤ And thank you for your "mining" suggestions! Great stuff 😀
January 17, 2023 at 11:35 pm
Ellie Langford
I plan to use your bold sentence and fill in the blanks with my story. Thanks Patricia.
January 17, 2023 at 11:38 pm
Acamy Schleikorn
Thanks for sharing!! Great tips!
January 17, 2023 at 11:38 pm
sburdorf
I have heard that phrase about writing what you know for a long time and for many years took it to mean literally I had to already know everything! Thanks for a fun post! Have a great day.
January 17, 2023 at 11:39 pm
Chelle Martin
Books on cultural foods are a lot of fun. Good luck with your book and thanks for sharing.
January 17, 2023 at 11:58 pm
Charlotte Glaze
I love cultural food books!
January 18, 2023 at 12:08 am
matthewlasley
We often hear that phrase, but we are often too close to see “what we know” and don’t really see the significance of it. When I published my first book, people commented on different parts and it wasn’t until that point that I realized how much of my own experiences were involved in the story.
There is inspiration in the mundane, even a bowl of noodles, you just have to sprinkle a bit of you into it to spice it up!
January 18, 2023 at 12:08 am
Debbie Meyer
Great job. I’m inspired to make a list of things I know.
January 18, 2023 at 12:08 am
Peggy Archer
Thank you, Patricia. Great advice that I need to keep in mind!
January 18, 2023 at 12:13 am
Jenna Johnson
Thanks for sharing your story!
January 18, 2023 at 12:25 am
tracyschuldthelixon
Congratulations on your new release! It looks wonderful.
January 18, 2023 at 12:30 am
jilltatara
Loved this post! Thank you!
January 18, 2023 at 12:30 am
Christine M Irvin
Thanks for the great article!
January 18, 2023 at 12:36 am
Maria Marshall
Thank you for this fun post and for spurring a couple of tantalizing ideas. Now to see if they go anywhere.
January 18, 2023 at 12:50 am
Vanessa
Hi,
The picture of the child eating ramen is adorable! Thank you for the post. It was very helpful.
January 18, 2023 at 12:53 am
Cindy S
Thanks for sharing
January 18, 2023 at 1:06 am
bonnie fireUrchin ~ pb illustration & writing
Glad my belly was full before reading this! I am still longing for dumplings. I love that you pointed out the goal for perfection is not the same as a formula for a successful ending in a book. I’m definitely for how we come together and make things work, even when difficult challenges come up – whether it’s life and death related or bubblegum stuck in one’s hair.
January 18, 2023 at 1:45 am
iartbygina
I love this so much! Thank you for the great inspiration!
January 18, 2023 at 1:11 am
Ashley Sierra (@AshleySierra06)
Thanks for the pitch template. I really do need to sit down and thing of things to wrote ankut thay I know. Great post!
January 18, 2023 at 1:15 am
Jess
I love that you created a formula to go with the phrase “write what you know,” it makes it accessible for everyone.
January 18, 2023 at 1:39 am
wyszguy
Your book looks yuuuuuummmmmy! Thanks for the wonderful advice.
January 18, 2023 at 2:02 am
Karan Greene
I think we often don’t write what we know because it doesn’t feel special or important. But we are the only ones with our unique experiences and perspective. Thanks for the reminder!
January 18, 2023 at 2:13 am
Earl @ The Chronicles Of A Children's Book Writer
Love this post. The matrix you provided is very helpful.
January 18, 2023 at 2:20 am
Angela Martinelli
Thank you Pat! The advice of mining your own life and experiences for ideas as well as developing those ideas with a unifying theme and underlying conflict is so helpful!
January 18, 2023 at 4:30 am
jamarisinclair
Thanks for this matrix as it is useful as a navigator for my own storybook ideas.
January 18, 2023 at 4:44 am
Linda Sakai
Passion and life experience just might make a great PB. Thanks for the reminder.
January 18, 2023 at 4:59 am
58chilihed13
my granddaughter has become the family ramen maven and creates really yummy combinations to share! Loved reading about your process, but had to go and get a snack…your words made me hungry!!
January 18, 2023 at 5:27 am
steveheron
Thank you, Patricia for your helpful post.
January 18, 2023 at 6:27 am
Suzanne Lewis
Great post, Patricia! Love the solid, easy to refer to guidance for a meaningful and fun picture book! Thank you!
January 18, 2023 at 6:38 am
ljtouche
Thank you for giving us a look inside your process. It was especially helpful to read your StoryStorm ideas. I often wonder if my ideas are good enough to count as ideas. From your post, I can see I am on the right track. Looking forward to staying connected and reading more of your work. -Lori Laniewski
January 18, 2023 at 8:01 am
Lauri Meyers
There’s some really magic in this post Patricia which I will be noodling (pun intended) for days!
January 18, 2023 at 8:09 am
Mark Ceilley
I enjoyed reading about your inspiration for your Ramen book. It was good to be reminded of a problem/ conflict and a satisfying ending.
January 18, 2023 at 8:31 am
Diana Murrell
Thank you for sharing your process! This structure is a great way to put ideas together and give them legs to turn into a story.
January 18, 2023 at 8:46 am
Jane Baskwill
Thank you Patricia for your helpful post. I have my helmet, light and pick ax – ready to mine!
January 18, 2023 at 8:48 am
Freda Lewkowicz
Thanks for the great advice.
January 18, 2023 at 9:31 am
Karin Larson
Thank you for the wonderful post and sharing your story. Very inspiring! I had two ideas before even finishing your post:)
January 18, 2023 at 9:31 am
stiefelchana
Love this post…especially the pic of your son! 🙂
January 18, 2023 at 10:08 am
Amanda
I live in the DC area too (Virginia) and your post made me want some recommendations for good ramen spots or other yummy eats in the area. ☺️ I love the formula you used for your book too- it provides just enough structure to help keep focus without being overly prescriptive.
January 18, 2023 at 10:20 am
Robin Martin
Thx for this!
January 18, 2023 at 10:25 am
Lynne Marie
As an absolute Ramen lover, would love to win a copy of this fun book! Best of luck to you!
January 18, 2023 at 10:28 am
Lisa Healy
I’m also a foodie and appreciate your universal themes that helped you launch RAMEN FOR EVERYONE!
January 18, 2023 at 10:32 am
authoraileenstewart
This book looks awesome and I love your process. Thanks for sharing!
January 18, 2023 at 11:04 am
allyenz
Thanks for sharing your matrix! Very helpful framework, and a good reminder that there needs to be obstacles/conflict even in something character driven. 🙂
January 18, 2023 at 11:37 am
Heather Dawn Torres
Thank you for sharing. I loved seeing your idea list! I tend to think of titles first so this was a great reminder that themes can spark ideas that don’t have to be catchy titles at all.
January 18, 2023 at 11:47 am
Laura Renauld
Taping into relationships, interests, and a kid-centered desire sounds like the perfect recipe for a good book. Congrats!
January 18, 2023 at 11:53 am
jenfierjasinski
I’m so looking forward to this book and a few bowls of ramen to go with it. Thanks for the formula!
January 18, 2023 at 12:05 pm
Annemarie Riley Guertin
Thanks for the reminders to look at my own life for inspiration.
January 18, 2023 at 12:21 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
Patricia, Thank you for reminding writers to write about what I know. The matrix is helpful.
Time for a bowl of noodles!
Suzy Leopold
January 18, 2023 at 12:35 pm
ungracefulwanderer
This post really hit home with me in my current writing journey.
1. Write what you know
2. Must be passionate about what your writing to get you through all those revisions (and inner critic)
3. Use the matrix: MC wants___ but can’t because of CONFLICT/OBSTACLE. Finally, he discovers___and achieves___.
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you!
January 18, 2023 at 12:38 pm
Esther Kook
Really great advice!
January 18, 2023 at 12:48 pm
JoLynne Ricker Whalen
Your post is so helpful with digging deeper into writing what you know. Thanks for sharing!
January 18, 2023 at 12:50 pm
Laurel Ranveig Abell
great advice!
January 18, 2023 at 12:54 pm
debbiemoeller
Thank you for sharing your recipe for success. Great post.
January 18, 2023 at 1:09 pm
cravevsworld
Great insight into your process and journey. Thank you!
January 18, 2023 at 1:17 pm
marty bellis
Perfect step by step guide for taking those ideas and coming up with a story. Thank you and congrats on all you upcoming books. That’s awesome!
January 18, 2023 at 1:21 pm
Nancy Ferguson
Thank you Patricia for sharing you process of “writing what you know”. I tend to forget that mining memories and feelings in childhood offer the “heart” of a story. I’m off to mine some memories of what I know!
January 18, 2023 at 1:21 pm
Traci Huahn
Thanks for sharing some of your inspirations and process! Totally craving a bowl of ramen right now! 🙂
January 18, 2023 at 1:28 pm
rgstones
Thanks for your post! It sparked some ideas and caused me to look at “what I know” differently.
January 18, 2023 at 1:40 pm
tinefg
Thank You Patricia! Such great advice and inspiration, digging deep and reevaluating what I know, and how I know it a whole new vein to explore! Congratulations on you upcoming release.
January 18, 2023 at 1:58 pm
Jane Martin
This is great advice. Thanks so much. Looking forward to reading your book!
January 18, 2023 at 2:11 pm
Darcee A Freier
So funny that all your ideas center around food. All my ideas center around dogs as I was walking my dog several times a day. LOL! The world needs more food and dog books!
January 18, 2023 at 2:17 pm
Michelle S Kennedy
Ya making me hungry!!! And Ramen is one of my son’s favorites. LOL. Thank you for the ‘foodspiration’ and the reminder to write about what we know.
January 18, 2023 at 2:31 pm
Joyce
You know thyself, Patricia, and use that knowledge to excellent effect. Ramen for Everyone sounds charming. Looking forward to reading it.
January 18, 2023 at 2:33 pm
Laura N. Clement
Lovely post. Thank you for sharing!
January 18, 2023 at 2:50 pm
Christine Graham
Thanks for a delightful post! Now I’m hungry.
January 18, 2023 at 2:59 pm
Penelope McNally
Thanks for this inspiring post, and for showing us how to make a brainstorm list of what we know – such a great idea! Congratulations on RAMEN!
January 18, 2023 at 2:59 pm
Lisa Galek
“Write what you know” is such great advice. It’s always important to bring our own unique selves to our writing.
January 18, 2023 at 3:05 pm
Marci Whitehurst
Thank you for sharing your process with “write what you know.” I appreciated your spin on it and how it became a book. Thanks for sharing!
January 18, 2023 at 3:17 pm
donnacangelosi
Such a helpful post! And what an adorable son you have! Thank you!
January 18, 2023 at 3:26 pm
Tanya Svec
Yum, this is making me hungry! And excited to write. Thank you for the formula and the tips to tie it all together. Can’t wait to read this book.
January 18, 2023 at 3:31 pm
Scott Wolf
Congratulations on your debut book, and thank you for the tips.
January 18, 2023 at 3:32 pm
Melissa Trempe
I can’t wait to read Ramen for Everyone and will be brainstorming my own ideas. Thanks!
January 18, 2023 at 3:34 pm
Jamie Donahoe
Such sage advice in a great post!
January 18, 2023 at 3:39 pm
Linda Hofke
Congratulations on your books
And thanks for the advice.
January 18, 2023 at 3:44 pm
Dawn Prochovnic
Your examples really helped me better understand / identify key elements such as: idea, big-picture theme, storyline, conflict, and resolution. Thank you so much!
January 18, 2023 at 4:09 pm
Judith Snyder
Thanks for the reminder and the fine examples of how you combine all the different elements needed in a good story.
January 18, 2023 at 4:16 pm
Lavonne Hunt
Ramen for Everyone sounds like a delightful book. Can’t wait to read it. Love your concise breakdown of building a story. Thanks.
January 18, 2023 at 4:39 pm
Kaye Baillie
Congratulations on your book, Patricia. It looks great! I love the matrix and will keep it handy.
January 18, 2023 at 4:39 pm
Kaylee Schmutz
I like the idea of finding a conflict for each story. That is such a sure way to develop a good plot
January 18, 2023 at 5:13 pm
Ruthie Nicklaus
Thank you so much!
January 18, 2023 at 5:17 pm
Arlene Schenker
Ramen, yum! I love writing about food, too. The book looks wonderful. Good luck with it!
January 18, 2023 at 5:18 pm
Carol Gordon Ekster
Great post and congrats on your picture book. My grandson loves ramen so I can’t wait to share this title with him!
January 18, 2023 at 5:38 pm
JL
Awesome to see how your love of food translates into picture books.
January 18, 2023 at 5:48 pm
authorlaurablog
A good reminder. Thank you.
January 18, 2023 at 5:55 pm
Elizabeth Kalasinsky
Good advice!
January 18, 2023 at 6:09 pm
Elle Carlin
What a great way to wrap up writing a PB in a short article! Love it. I love the make sure kids can relate to it. What great advice.
January 18, 2023 at 6:10 pm
catlady45
I’ve already got ideas to write about what I know. Thank you for the inspiration!
January 18, 2023 at 6:36 pm
Christine Fleming McIsaac
Love this post and your story. Can’t wait to read it.
January 18, 2023 at 6:58 pm
kdgwrites
I always forget about the simple story matrix. Thank you Patricia for reminding me about this simple tool.
January 18, 2023 at 7:36 pm
chaunceyelephant
Appreciate your step by step analysis of a story!
January 18, 2023 at 7:38 pm
andreesantini
Thanks for your post, it has given me some new direction in my current projects.
January 18, 2023 at 7:59 pm
Ashley Karges
Excellent post! I snapped a pic of your book cover to show my daughter – she is obsessed with Ramen 🙂 Congratulations! Can’t wait to check this one out.
January 18, 2023 at 8:01 pm
catchandi
Your new book looks so fun, and I love the story behind it! Thanks for reminding us to mine our experiences!
January 18, 2023 at 8:06 pm
Helen Lysicatos
Thank you for the writing tips, they definitely will help me expand on some ideas I have.
January 18, 2023 at 8:07 pm
carmelamccainsimmons
This story sounds so appealing and I wish it had been available years ago for my first graders! I cannot wait to read it!
January 18, 2023 at 8:23 pm
Susanne Whitehouse
So great that your love of cooking finds it’s way into your books! Thanks for the post!
January 18, 2023 at 9:22 pm
abby mumford
I love a good formula, but never more so than when it involves words instead of numbers! Adding this to my toolbox. Thank you, Patricia!
January 18, 2023 at 9:30 pm
Jane Dippold
I love how your book came together! Thanks for your inspiring post!
January 18, 2023 at 9:41 pm
Sarah Meade
This is a helpful post, Patricia. Thank you! I look forward to reading both of your upcoming books this year. Congrats!
January 18, 2023 at 9:41 pm
beckylevine
I like the way you talk about adding layers. And that’s a great matrix!
January 18, 2023 at 9:47 pm
Jacqueline Adams
Thanks for sharing how you took RAMEN FOR EVERYONE from idea to a finished story. Very helpful!
January 18, 2023 at 9:57 pm
Sara Weingartner
Thank you, Patricia! I love your mantra. Great reminder. And congrats on the upcoming release of Ramen for Everyone!
January 18, 2023 at 11:46 pm
Lisa Billa
Congratulations on your debut, and thanks for the great suggestions!
January 19, 2023 at 12:10 am
Melissa Chupp
Can’t wait to read your book!
January 19, 2023 at 1:19 am
GOades-Sese
Thank you for sharing your process and strategy! I am looking forward to reading your book!
January 19, 2023 at 3:27 am
EmilyKeifer
Thank you for the advice!
January 19, 2023 at 4:14 am
Pencil First writing &. editing
I love everything about this blog. The whole ‘write what you know’ is central to creating stories that are authentic. But the matrix of trying to find how something so simple can be turned into something of interest is critical. I am glad you persisted with your writing and had faith in yourself to achieve success. Congratulations on your book!
January 19, 2023 at 4:15 am
Pencil First writing &. editing
I love everything about this blog. The whole ‘write what you know’ is central to creating stories that are authentic. But the matrix of trying to find how something so simple can be turned into something of interest is critical. I am glad you persisted with your writing and had faith in yourself to achieve success. Congratulations on your book!
January 19, 2023 at 4:51 am
Rita
Thank you for sharing this example, Patricia! Ramen for Everyone looks brilliant and I love the illustrations style!
January 19, 2023 at 4:55 am
Kellie
I love ramen! Proper Japanese ramen – particularly Hokkaido ramen … but I digress. Love how you unpacked that sage advice ‘write what you know’ … have realised now that I never really knew what that meant. Thank you, Patricia.
January 19, 2023 at 6:04 am
Catherine Friess
I love the idea of mining my life and experiences – thanks Patricia 🙂
January 19, 2023 at 6:49 am
alanadevito
Looks great! Thank you for the tips!
January 19, 2023 at 7:26 am
Bridgitte Rodguez
This is great! I’m always writing what I know! I have always thought I’m not a storyteller, I just write about things I’ve experienced. But I love the way you make us take this one step further!
January 19, 2023 at 8:41 am
Janet Smart
Thank you so much. You’ve given me some ideas.
January 19, 2023 at 9:10 am
Jamie Bills
RAMAN FOR EVERYONE looks so good! Can’t wait to read it. Now I just need to think about what I know. Thanks for the plot-formula checker.
January 19, 2023 at 11:06 am
David Miles
I love the variety of posts here! This one is really great. I love seeing the process you went through for your book and that you broke it down into logical steps is so great. Thankyou! Looking forward to Ramen For Everyone!
January 19, 2023 at 11:20 am
gattodesign
Congratulations! Write what you know, great advice.
January 19, 2023 at 11:27 am
calliebdean
Thanks for sharing your process with us! I found this post to be super helpful and inspirational!
January 19, 2023 at 12:30 pm
Michele Helsel
I know that “MC wants___ but can’t because of CONFLICT/OBSTACLE. Finally, he discovers___and achieves___.” will help me focus!
January 19, 2023 at 1:00 pm
Penny Taub
Congratulations! I love cooking too. Look forward to reading your books. Thank you for the helpful ideas to write what you know.
January 19, 2023 at 1:29 pm
claireannette1
Raman For Everyone looks like a book that will be enjoyed by everyone! Your post has me looking for the big themes in my writing. Thanks for your inspiring words.
January 19, 2023 at 1:36 pm
Danette
Making a long list of the things I “know” for brainstorming ideas. Thanks for the tip!
January 19, 2023 at 2:20 pm
amandaeschcormier
Wooo! Good advice in this one. I wrote down an idea I think will be very fun to write!
January 19, 2023 at 2:24 pm
angiecal76
Great tips on how to breathe life into ideas. Your son is absolutely adorable and your book sounds like a bowl of fun!
January 19, 2023 at 2:50 pm
Maureen Fergus
Excellent advice, thanks!
January 19, 2023 at 4:39 pm
staceygustafson
Your matrix is very useful. Thanks for the inspiration.
January 19, 2023 at 4:45 pm
staceygustafson
Love your matrix idea. Thanks for the inspiration!
January 19, 2023 at 6:13 pm
Christina Dankert
Excellent advice and your story looks adorable! Congratulations!
January 19, 2023 at 6:31 pm
Allison Green
Heading to the library to check out all her books soon!
January 19, 2023 at 6:46 pm
Diane M.
Congrats on your upcoming books. I’m craving Ramen!
January 19, 2023 at 7:00 pm
Mary Warth
Thank you for the great post Patricia! Your examples are so helpful. Off to make my lists!
January 19, 2023 at 7:29 pm
Tasha Hilderman
Great post, and our familly will be excited for this book!
January 19, 2023 at 8:47 pm
Ali V. (they/them)
I want to see the Hello Kitty drawings! 😉
January 19, 2023 at 9:57 pm
Eva Felder
Dear Patricia,
Thanks for your post. Such a good advice: Write what you know.
Uniting your love for food, cooking, culture, and family in a book about your son, his admired father, and Ramen noodles; such an awesome achievement.
Congratulation on your debut and the many more to follow!
January 19, 2023 at 10:29 pm
Erik Ammon
Write what you know! What perfect advice. I like the twists and possibilities of doing that.
January 19, 2023 at 10:45 pm
Jenny Boyd
Such great (and sensible) advice! Thank you!
January 19, 2023 at 11:04 pm
Ben Jeder
This is the best advice for write what you know, something that’s been a struggle to fully understand. Great post
January 20, 2023 at 12:44 am
Joannie Duris
Congratulations on your debut picture book, Patricia! And I love how you’ve shown a deceptively simple recipe for a book: take something from your life, mix in a big picture theme, and add conflict. The matrix is a great way to develop the arc and pitch for a story, and to be sure your words don’t wander off track.
January 20, 2023 at 12:50 am
🇵🇪 Sara Fajardo 🇺🇸 is wrestling with words (@safajarwrites)
Thank you!
January 20, 2023 at 7:27 am
Lucky Jo Boscarino
Now I’m craving ramen and it’s only 6:30am.
January 20, 2023 at 10:37 am
Juliana Jones
Thanks so much for your extensive and helpful tips! I think I’ll have ramen for lunch!
January 20, 2023 at 12:02 pm
debbiearnn
I like your guideposts! I’ve used similar ones when teaching 2nd grade, but being reminded of them as a pb writer is really helpful! Love hearing how your stories came to be!
January 20, 2023 at 1:25 pm
JenFW
One thing I know: this is good advice.
January 20, 2023 at 3:48 pm
susan contreras
You made me hungry!
January 20, 2023 at 3:57 pm
susaninez0905
Thank you for the reminder to write what you know with added fun. You have given me some wonderful ideas.
January 20, 2023 at 4:56 pm
Krys Plate
Thank you for the reminder that I need to write what I know. I loved how you said “Mine your life”!
January 20, 2023 at 5:09 pm
michelerietz
Thank you for the tips on writing what we know. So many stories out there!
Congratulations on your picture book.
January 20, 2023 at 5:30 pm
Hank Dallago
Pat – I love how you write cookbooks as well as picture books. My head is spinning with book titles from such an amazing combination. I also love how you hope that children of every color and creed will see themselves reflected in books. Me too! Amen.
January 20, 2023 at 5:55 pm
Amy Newbold
Thank you for this “recipe” for creating a story by mixing together the ingredients of an idea, a theme, and a conflict. I’m going to apply this to my Storystorm list!
January 20, 2023 at 6:17 pm
shirley301
I love your idea to write what you know. It helps when I might have to live with the idea through many revisions.
January 20, 2023 at 11:11 pm
Brinton Culp
Thank you for the encouragement and reminding me about the importance of conflict. And great pic -now I want to go eat ramen.
January 21, 2023 at 12:04 am
Rebecca Gardyn Levington
I’m getting so hungry reading your post! LOL! Thank you for these wonderful tips!
January 21, 2023 at 8:38 am
Cynthia Ning
Hey Patricia!
This was such a special post about finding ideas from your own life experiences and having them manifest into story book ideas before your eyes! Being part of this community of writers and my first year in Storystorm, I have taken note of the inspiration around me.
In particular, the people in my life and my own experiences where I can now start to see a pattern forming!
It is reassuring to know that every writer has a story or two (or more!) that takes a while to brew before it is ready to be plucked and polished for publication. Patience is a virtue, and the love of books is strong. Believing in your own story is key to keep going and keep trying.
Congratulations on your new book release! Wishing you and your family a happy, healthy and prosperous Chinese New Year of the Rabbit 2023.
Day 17 ideas down.
Cynthia x
January 21, 2023 at 9:51 am
Jeanette
I love the equation you used to complete your book idea xx
January 21, 2023 at 12:10 pm
Jenifer Hunt
Off to brainstorm what I know and build my Storystorm idea list.
January 21, 2023 at 12:26 pm
Jessica Fries-Gaither
This is a terrific explanation of an often-repeated maxim. Thanks for sharing!
January 21, 2023 at 1:59 pm
Lynn Alpert
Thank you for sharing your yummy ideas!
January 21, 2023 at 4:22 pm
Nancy Kotkin
I like your idea of marrying an ordinary idea to a larger concept. Best of luck to you with your upcoming releases.
January 21, 2023 at 8:51 pm
Naja Lund Aparico
Congrats on your book! Great advice to generate ideas. I immediately got a new idea as I read your post.
January 21, 2023 at 9:28 pm
Melissa Hastings
I look forward to developing new characters and mash ups for things I know.
January 21, 2023 at 9:37 pm
Hollie Wolverton
I’m mining! Thanks for the push.
January 21, 2023 at 10:47 pm
sharonkdal
Loved reading about your process. I’m going to give that a try! Thanks for sharing.
January 22, 2023 at 12:14 am
Haley Thomas
Love the story matrix template you shared–thank you!
January 22, 2023 at 1:11 am
ritariebelmitchell
Thanks for sharing your process. Great ideas!
January 22, 2023 at 1:39 am
Bri Lawyer
Great advice! Thank you for sharing!
January 22, 2023 at 10:38 am
Beth Elliott
Patricia, congratulations on your debut book! Thank you for your post – it reminds us that getting back to basics in terms of ideas and framework . . . works!!!
January 22, 2023 at 11:36 am
Maria Bostian
I love the idea of writing what you know and having been tying with the idea of writing about my favorite breakfast foods. Now, I’m inspired to do that! Thank you!
January 22, 2023 at 11:54 am
LaurenKerstein
That ramen-noodle eating picture is priceless. I must admit, I now have an unnatural craving for all things noodles, but especially ramen. Thank you for this terrific post. I am so excited for Shiho and you!
January 22, 2023 at 12:51 pm
ryanrobertsauthor
Wonderful suggestions!
January 22, 2023 at 1:03 pm
Patti Ranson
Reading your post was time well spent. BTW – a great pic of your son enjoying his ramen!
January 22, 2023 at 3:13 pm
Ann Page
Patricia,
Thanks for the ideas.
Ann
P.S. I LOVE ramen!!
January 22, 2023 at 3:28 pm
Devin Stetson
Sometimes the most obvious advice is the one we take most for granted. Thank you!
January 22, 2023 at 4:55 pm
Stephen S. Martin
Great path to developing an idea – but now I am hungry!
January 22, 2023 at 9:04 pm
Debbi G
Thanks for sharing your story development process and inspiration.
January 22, 2023 at 10:19 pm
srkckass
This makes me want to try out your technique and see what I can come up with. It also makes me want to eat a bowl of Ramen. Thanks!
January 22, 2023 at 10:49 pm
Shannon LaPuma
Thanks for the ideas and instilling hope that we can do it too! Congratulations on your new book.
January 23, 2023 at 12:47 am
syorkeviney
I need to use your matrix. I tend to write concept books and am sometimes afraid to write narratives I should just plow on and trust the process. Thanks for reminding me of this plus that tinged by that eventually will lead to a resolution. Yay! Thank you!
January 23, 2023 at 1:30 am
Erin P
This is a great post and fun to read because I love cooking too! Thanks for sharing
January 23, 2023 at 7:36 am
topangamaria
Delicious advice.
January 23, 2023 at 9:10 am
Louise M. Aamodt
I like the idea of honing in on themes. I just found mine that runs through almost all of my Storystorm 2023 new ideas! And, btw, now I’m hungry for ramen.
January 23, 2023 at 11:57 am
Rebecca Guzinski
LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the brainstorming theme and conflict suggestions for writing and honing a story! Thank you!
January 23, 2023 at 1:26 pm
Judy Sobanski
Thanks for sharing how you decide which ideas are the best to develop into a story!
January 23, 2023 at 3:04 pm
R.G. Spaulding
Fun read. Thank you for sharing your process. My kids love ramen and I’m constantly browsing the internet for interesting foods to make. Now I will be brainstorming as I browse my favorite foods.
January 23, 2023 at 5:23 pm
Ali Oxtoby
I’m cheering for us too!
January 23, 2023 at 7:14 pm
Yehudit Sarah
I was hungry for your suggestions and advice and I’m eating them up! I’m grateful for all the examples you shared. I see more clearly how I have ideas sitting right in front of me to tap into. Congratulations on your book about to be published!!!
January 23, 2023 at 7:59 pm
Shannon Fossett
This was so helpful! I loved your picture of your son. Great inspiration!
January 23, 2023 at 11:14 pm
carlislemalone
I adore this and your personal connections within the post are amazing!
January 23, 2023 at 11:54 pm
Dani Duck
Thank you for some great ideas Patricia! Writing what you know is said a lot, but sometimes just saying it the right way is what makes it connect. Thank you for talking about which idea to focus on. That can be a problem for me. I can come up with a hundred or more ideas a month, but finding that one good idea to work on can be so difficult!
January 24, 2023 at 1:29 am
marybeningo
Thank you for sharing your ideas 🙂 I like how you laid out different suggestions (like Monster family owns a bakery)- it was helpful seeing that and it helped some things click in my brain! A lot of my ideas are just a quick phrase like this for this Storystorm but I like how you laid out the processes that should happen next. It makes me feel like these simple phrases are enough for now and to really dig deep next month!
January 24, 2023 at 8:14 am
Rebecca Grant
Thank you for sharing where to find inspiration in the things that we know – and for the story matrix!
January 24, 2023 at 8:24 am
Anne Young
The matrix is deceptively simple – nailing some of those things can require a lot of thinking.
January 24, 2023 at 10:23 am
marias62
Hello from Indonesia, Patricia. We share such a similar immigrant experience that you could be my cousin! In fact, my husband’s cousin shares your surname. Noodles (or Bakmi) is arguably the most popular food among Indonesians, perhaps next only to fried items. I especially love that you incorporate warm family relationships in your food stories.
January 24, 2023 at 3:42 pm
Zoraida Rivera
Writers must be perseverant. You certainly were! Congratulations. Got three ideas here. Thanks.
January 24, 2023 at 4:14 pm
Olivia
Oh my goodness! I love this. I love the thought of coming up with picture book ideas from our own world interests and then layering in a theme that’s close to our hearts. Your book looks so fun and sweet!
January 24, 2023 at 6:51 pm
Kassy Keppol
Thank you for sharing.
January 24, 2023 at 8:53 pm
JEN Garrett
I can’t wait until your book comes out! My son learned how to make “real ramen” with dashi and ajitamas (he’s part Japanese) and ever since then ramen cooked according to the package instructions never tastes quite right.
January 25, 2023 at 10:42 am
Meredith Fraser
What wonderful advice! Thank you for your matrix. I will definitely use this.
Congratulations on RAMEN FOR EVERYONE
January 25, 2023 at 11:41 am
Lynn M. Mondello
Pat, thank you for sharing your experience, and especially for the matrix you used. I struggle with adding conflict to “write what you know” stories and this is helpful.
January 25, 2023 at 11:52 am
Suzanne Poulter Harris
Great post, Pat! And less than two months until Ramen for Everyone is in the bookstores … how exciting!
January 25, 2023 at 1:14 pm
Angela De Groot
Thanks for the tips and sharing Ramen for Everyone’s journey.
January 25, 2023 at 4:22 pm
Jane Heitman Healy
Patricia, thanks for sharing your recipe for writing a picture book!
January 25, 2023 at 5:09 pm
hodgeh77
I love your enthusiasm and tips for writing from what you know. Thanks for sharing!!
January 25, 2023 at 8:51 pm
Lindsey Hobson
Love this! Congrats on your book!
January 25, 2023 at 10:51 pm
Sylvia Mary Grech
Thank you for sharing your experience.
January 26, 2023 at 2:12 am
Toni Weeks
I can’t wait to find out what the MC does cook! Thanks for this delightful post.
January 26, 2023 at 3:23 am
Sharon Giltrow
Love how you combine your two passions. Food and words :-).
January 26, 2023 at 3:13 pm
aidantalkin
Lovely tips, thank you! And congrats on the new release
January 26, 2023 at 7:32 pm
juliannahelt
Looking forward to reading your book!
January 26, 2023 at 9:53 pm
Eileen Mayo
Congratulations on the book! I love the tips on getting ideas flowing. Thank you.
January 26, 2023 at 10:48 pm
Kamilla Sjodin
Yes!! I’m working on a story that was inspired by the part of my day job that I’m passionate about! Thanks for his encouragement!
January 26, 2023 at 11:45 pm
cozysnoozeshelf
Sometimes I worry that there won’t be enough interest in my experience. Clearly, I was wrong. Thanks for the encouragement!
Sent from my iPad
>
January 27, 2023 at 3:03 pm
ptnozell
I love reading and writing about food, too, and I look forward to reading Ramen for Everyone.
January 27, 2023 at 9:14 pm
Melissa McDaniel
Thank you!
January 28, 2023 at 9:41 am
Jennie H
Thank you for sharing your process! Congrats on your book!!
January 28, 2023 at 11:01 am
jessaroux
Now I want to brainstorm ideas AND try making Raman! Sometimes, we forget how much inspiration there is right under our noses.
January 28, 2023 at 11:32 am
J. Brianne Jahn
I love the theme throughout all your stories. I love food too and the way it brings people together, the connection through food. Yum!
January 28, 2023 at 3:51 pm
Cassie Bentley
Congratulations on your debut book. Thank you for telling about your striving for perfection and realizing how others appreciate your work.
January 28, 2023 at 6:20 pm
Aimee Hiura
This is a perfect example why we should consider writing something we really care! Thanks for sharing such an inspiring story. Congratulations on your book!
January 28, 2023 at 6:21 pm
Viviane Elbee
I cannot wait to read your books! Thank you for the inspiration
January 29, 2023 at 4:16 am
Angela Turner
Thank you for this inspiring post. It also made me hungry
January 29, 2023 at 3:44 pm
Susie Sawyer
I’ve always struggled with “write what you know”. Thank you for your inspiration, and for helping me broaden my focus on what I know.
January 29, 2023 at 4:49 pm
sylviaichen
I love what you shared so much, thank you!!
January 29, 2023 at 5:18 pm
Aimee Larke
Write what you know. always a good reminder.
January 29, 2023 at 5:36 pm
Elizabeth Metz
Pat, I think you’ve found the scientific formula to story idea generation!! I will have to return to this one at the end of the month and find a situation, a theme, and a personal experience to mash up together into a viable book concept. THANK YOU!
January 29, 2023 at 8:20 pm
Kris Hamblin
I loved the brief matrix you came up with.
January 29, 2023 at 8:56 pm
René Bartos
Great post. Thanks for sharing and congrats on the upcoming book Patricia!
January 30, 2023 at 10:44 am
Joanne Roberts
Thanks. I like the way you mine your life at every stage of development. Congrats on your upcoming releases. I love books about food!!!!!
January 30, 2023 at 12:08 pm
Lucy Staugler
Patrica,
Thanks for all the tips in this wonderful post!!! Now I’m really hungry for ramen noodles!
Keep spreading your magic!
Lucy
January 30, 2023 at 12:42 pm
pjaegly
I am hungry for noodles now, too. Thanks for tips on how to mine our life. I am revisiting times in my childhood where my exploits did not turn out as I expected for ideas.
January 30, 2023 at 3:18 pm
colleenrkosinski
Congrats!
January 30, 2023 at 5:20 pm
Ellen Leventhal
I love writing from my own life, but you’ve raised the bar. Thanks!
January 30, 2023 at 7:02 pm
goodreadswithronna
Good luck with Ramen for Everyone. I love how you mined a family experience and coupled it with your own love of cooking. I’m sure the book is filled with heart and humor. It sounds like it should not be read on an empty stomach. Your pitch matrix is terrific too.
January 30, 2023 at 7:39 pm
Johanna Peyton
Thank you for sharing your advice and story! Now I am craving noodles!!
January 31, 2023 at 3:58 am
Rebecca van den Ham
Thank you for your encouraging words and the reminder to choose an idea to pursue with passion.
January 31, 2023 at 4:32 pm
Amanda
“Just because it wasn’t perfect doesn’t mean it couldn’t be appreciated.”
So True!
January 31, 2023 at 7:18 pm
Megan McNamara
What a journey! Thanks for sharing!
January 31, 2023 at 7:18 pm
Kristin Sawyer
My son will definitely want to devour Ramen for Everyone! Thank you for sharing your passion (and your tips for us to do the same).
January 31, 2023 at 10:03 pm
Alexis_Bookdragon
I love ramen! 🤩 thank you for sharing your story.
January 31, 2023 at 10:49 pm
KamillaM
Lovely way to approach this! The book looks awesome Kamilla Milligan, Writer (she/her) kamillamilligan.com
February 1, 2023 at 12:42 am
calepage
So many big themes in search of a unifying element:)
February 1, 2023 at 1:46 am
Jocelyn Rish
This was cool how you pulled the story from so many different parts of your life.
February 1, 2023 at 1:58 am
amandalittleauthor
Great advice and I love the matrix. Thanks for sharing!
February 1, 2023 at 11:09 am
cinzialverde
Thanks for the advice. I love the tying to a big picture theme!
February 1, 2023 at 8:43 pm
kaleegwarjanski
Great advice and fun story!
February 2, 2023 at 1:57 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 3:50 pm
Bhandi
This book sounds amazing 😭I love food books
February 2, 2023 at 11:05 pm
Keeping the Me in Mommy
Thanks for the inspiration!
February 3, 2023 at 9:48 pm
Judy Abelove Shemtob
Loved reading about your process, Patricia! Friendly matrix to work with! Thanks.
February 6, 2023 at 1:47 pm
Bethany Brown
this was fun to think about! thank you!
February 17, 2023 at 1:51 am
Dea Brayden
Thanks for lifting this up and sharing your journey. So important to keep writing authentic.