January 2, 2024 8:30 am
Welcome to Day Two of Storystorm! If it hasn’t happened yet, soon your world will be full of stories. You walk down the street and every bird, every dog, every odd-colored car seems like they could be the star of a picture book. I love this. Yes, the sparrow, the puggle, and the car the color of pineapple juice are there every day, but there is magic in suddenly seeing ideas, and seeing that they are everywhere. I get such a thrill from writing down all of these possibilities and figuring out what their stories might be.
Here’s how writing usually works for me:
While I do like the writing process, I also really like the part where I send the manuscript out and it’s no longer my problem. I like checking things off my to-do list. But I have learned I can’t rush it. Creativity isn’t an item to check off. I need to give the manuscript time. How much time? As much as it needs. Sometimes that’s a few weeks. Sometimes it’s years.
It’s like stories are artifacts we’re unburying, and some are fairly clean and close to the surface, and for some you have to dig for miles and clean off a lot of dirt before you even know what you’re looking at.
It’s a magic trick to take your invisible brain thoughts and form them into real words and stories. Of course it takes time.
Time lets me see what’s working and what’s not in a story. It’s only by letting a draft sit for a day, a week, a month, that I can understand what it’s trying to be and shape it into that thing. There are always parts that helped me get the story to where it needs to be, and then, three drafts and some time later, it’s obvious that part can be cut away. There are also always parts that stick out somehow, that take me out of the story, or just bug me. Often it takes a few drafts (and time) for me to realize that part is poking at me and needs to go. Time is what takes a manuscript from good enough to great.
At some point, the changes I’m making to a draft are small and insignificant (adding a comma, say), and there aren’t any more pointy bits that poke me when I’m reading or thinking about it. And that, finally, is when I send it out and (at least temporarily) get it off my desk.
I have a picture book coming out in June called HELP WANTED: ONE ROOSTER. I wrote the first draft of this book in 2012. It’s about a cow who is interviewing roosters for the rooster job at the farm, and they’re all terrible candidates. After many revisions, it got a book deal in 2014.
This is easy math. The book is coming out twelve years after I wrote the first draft, ten years after the book went under contract. When people say publishing is slow, they’re not kidding. So, listen: TAKE YOUR TIME. There is truly no rush.
As the years went on, I deleted characters who didn’t seem quite so funny to me any more, and replaced them with better ones. I worked and reworked why they were looking for a new rooster in the first place. I didn’t really figure out the ending until 2021—years after it was originally supposed to publish.
It took ten years from the first draft for the story to get fully unburied. I wasn’t working on it nonstop during that time—years would go by when I wouldn’t work on it at all—but it was always simmering, and the full plot of it didn’t really come to me until three years ago.
I never would have expected this book to take so long when I first got the idea. But I know that some books just take longer. And it’s always right to give them the time they need. So go forth! Write up those ideas! Some will flow right out of you, and some will take much longer, which is, frankly, fascinating. Why are they buried so deep? We’ll never know. But we are so lucky to be the ones who get to dig them out.
Julie Falatko is giving away a seat at her picture book revision class to one lucky Storystorm winner.
You’re eligible to win if you’re a registered Storystorm 2024 participant and you have commented only once below.
Prizes will be distributed at the conclusion of Storystorm.
Julie Falatko writes books for children. She is the author of several picture books, including SNAPPSY TTHE ALLIGATOR (Did Not Ask to Be in This Book), THE GREAT INDOOORS, RICK THE ROCK OF ROOM 214, as well as the TWO DOGS IN A TRENCH COAT chapter book series. Julie lives with her family in Maine, where she maintains the Little Free Library in front of their house. Visit her at JulieFalatko.com and subscribe to her Substack newsletter.
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Categories: STORYSTORM 2024
Tags: Julie Falatko
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HELP WANTED: ONE ROOSTER sounds hilarious! Congratulations on your book deal Julie 🙂
By Catherine Friess on January 2, 2024 at 8:39 am
Julie, congratulations on your patience! I totally agree that the process of writing is fascinating:) Thanks for your advice to give it time.
Gail Hartman
By thecrowsmap on January 2, 2024 at 8:39 am
So, so true! I really hate to wait (especially if it has been months or years), but the story has its own timeline for being told.
By Jessxie on January 2, 2024 at 8:42 am
Congrats, Julie, on your new book! I love this concept! Wow, that’s great you never gave up on it. Good to hear from you again.
By tinamcho on January 2, 2024 at 8:42 am
Wow! This gives me hope!
By coachrochelle on January 2, 2024 at 8:42 am
This book sounds so funny! Thank you for your advice!
By Cristina Raymer on January 2, 2024 at 8:43 am
Great advice! Thank you, Julie!
By lorimkeatingyahoocom on January 2, 2024 at 8:44 am
So true that some stories need to simmer for years. A poem that I wrote when my kids were young didn’t end up published as my picture book “Bathtime Fun!” until thirty-five years later.
By kathleengauer on January 2, 2024 at 8:44 am
35 years! That’s a long time! I love that, though, that it took the time it needed to take.
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:07 am
“It’s like stories are artifacts we’re unburying, and some are fairly clean and close to the surface, and for some you have to dig for miles and clean off a lot of dirt before you even know what you’re looking at.” This is a fantastic way to look at the process, from idea, to researching, drafting, revising (and revising, and revising…)!
By Tanya Konerman on January 2, 2024 at 8:46 am
Great advice! You can’t rush a good story!
By Tara N Seahorn on January 2, 2024 at 8:47 am
Thank you for this important reminder not to rush the process! I’m a big SNAPPSY fan and am excited to meet your new cast of characters. Congrats!
By Barbara Kimmel on January 2, 2024 at 8:47 am
Thank you, Barbara!
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:08 am
Excellent suggestions and inspiration!
By Julia A Mills on January 2, 2024 at 8:49 am
Congratulations and thanks for the reminder!
By Rebecca Colby on January 2, 2024 at 8:51 am
Thanks, Julie. I have many, many ideas for stories that have been in my orbit for quite some time. My challenge is writing them down before I feel like I have the full story, the ‘perfect’ sequence of words and plot. You are poking me to ‘just get them down’ – a scary and yet necessary prospect. 🙂
By Elizabeth Volkmann on January 2, 2024 at 8:52 am
If I waited until I had the perfect story and sequence of words, I would never write anything. My favorite way to write when I only have a sliver of a story is to write whatever I can, and then free write/journal right in the story (I write my first drafts longhand). I’ll write out what I think could happen, whether that feels like enough to hold a whole story, if there are parts that aren’t working, or if there’s something I want to expand, and why, and how.
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:10 am
Time to take out my shovel and dig some more holes! Hard not to give up, but this shows that it is worth it Thanks Julie!
By 58chilihed13 on January 2, 2024 at 8:57 am
Wow. Talk about persistence! Thanks for sharing.
By Aileen Stewart on January 2, 2024 at 8:57 am
Great reminder that it takes as long as it takes.
By Zoodocwrites on January 2, 2024 at 8:59 am
Congratulations Julie on your new book. It sounds like a funny book kids will want to read over and over again.
By Mark Bentz on January 2, 2024 at 9:02 am
Thank you for this post! It is fascinating how stories evolve (and how long they take to fruition.) Stormstormers are so lucky to be the ones to get your insight into this! 🙂
By jilltatara on January 2, 2024 at 9:03 am
Makes me feel better that putting story aside for years is okay. Thank you for the vision of patience.
By ninarj2000 on January 2, 2024 at 9:04 am
Great reminder and real life example of what it means to be patient. thank you. I definitely want to read Help Wanted, One Rooster!
By triciahinely on January 2, 2024 at 9:07 am
The sheep and cow are hysterical! This will be a great read aloud. I love the image of digging for what is really already there!
By robincurrie1 on January 2, 2024 at 9:08 am
Giving ideas the time and space they need to develop (or bringing them back once they’ve had time to age) can be a challenge, but so important!
By Melissa Lettis on January 2, 2024 at 9:09 am
Thanks for the encouragement and reminder to be patient with the best part: THE CREATIVITY!!!
By Laurel Ranveig Abell on January 2, 2024 at 9:11 am
Such an inspiring post, Julie! My favorite quote, “It’s a magic trick to take your invisible brain thoughts and form them into real words and stories. Of course it takes time.”
By kcollazo on January 2, 2024 at 9:11 am
Loved hearing about the creation of your upcoming book Julie.
By Mirka H on January 2, 2024 at 9:12 am
Love the idea of “uncovering” stories that lie beneath the surface…thanks for your post, Julie, and congrats on your long-awaited book!
By Kylie Burns kysblog1 on January 2, 2024 at 9:13 am
Wow that is a long time for a story to percolate! Love the image of revising till the story no longer pokes you. Congratulations on your new book!
By nbiebow on January 2, 2024 at 9:14 am
Holy cow, you must have unlimited patience! Thanks for the reminder to cool our jets and keep working those stories until they shine.
By julianamjones728 on January 2, 2024 at 9:15 am
Time is on our side.
By Susan on January 2, 2024 at 9:16 am
Hi Julie!
Great to hear from you in Storystorm. You always give me hope and help me find the voice of reason. I have projects and projects in various stages. I love and believe in them all, but know they will each bloom in their own time. I have to keep tilling the soil, feeding according to their needs, and pruning as necessary.
Thanks for writing today,
Cathy
By Cathy Lentes on January 2, 2024 at 9:17 am
Hi Cathy! I’m cheering for you!
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:11 am
12 years! But such a clever premise.
Sent from my iPhone
By annmdk on January 2, 2024 at 9:17 am
Thanks for the reassurance and reminder! This process can feel so crazy sometimes!
By triciacandy on January 2, 2024 at 9:18 am
Great advice! Thank you for sharing your thoughts and reminder that patience is a virtue. I like the dreaming part how it feels to accept an award or getting a high five from Oprah! It’s nice to dream but maybe someday! You never know!
By kvavala on January 2, 2024 at 9:21 am
Super relatable post, Julie. And great reminders to take it slow …thanks for sharing!
By Deborah Agranat Sullivan on January 2, 2024 at 9:23 am
Words of wisdom! Learning this more and more each year. Thanks Julie!
By Patricia Franz on January 2, 2024 at 9:23 am
Congrats on your book, and well done on all the time and dedication you have put into not giving up on it! I love your analogy of the writing process being like digging up artifacts! I have a lot of artifacts of my own, some over 10 years in the making as well that I hope will one make it out into the world! Have fun digging today, everyone! Thanks for this inspirational post today!
By bookclubhbhs on January 2, 2024 at 9:24 am
There is hope for those dusty manuscripts!
By sandra2ae74cbbe8 on January 2, 2024 at 9:24 am
Thanks for sharing your process and for encouraging us to take our time! It’s a marathon for sure!!
By Patti Richards, Children's Author on January 2, 2024 at 9:25 am
Thank you for this; so reassuring to know that things take time and a lack of success in publishing deals today doesn’t mean forever!
By jbcomp2013 on January 2, 2024 at 9:25 am
Very encouraging post! I can get so excited about a story and rush it out the door. I need to practice your patience and let it rest a bit. Thanks for the advice and best wishes on your new book.
By Darla Christie on January 2, 2024 at 9:25 am
Congratulations on your book and your patience!! I think I’ll do a deep dive into some of my oldest mss and see if I have some fresh twists to add. Thanks!!
By Daryl Gottier on January 2, 2024 at 9:26 am
Now I can’t help wondering why they needed a new rooster – I’ll have to get the book! Thank you for encouraging us to let writing and ideas take the time it takes! Very inspirational!
By Catrine Kyster on January 2, 2024 at 9:26 am
Ha, I didn’t mean to dangle that out there like a mystery! But of course now I’m not going to tell you.
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:14 am
Thank you for this reminder to take our time. I’m off to Future-trip!
By andreesantini on January 2, 2024 at 9:26 am
I can relate, Julie! The idea for one of my books originated in 1994 and after many drafts, starts and stops, and a total reinvention, was published in 2019.
By amyhouts on January 2, 2024 at 9:26 am
That’s a long time! I think it’s so cool though, how some of these stories just really need to grow slowly.
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:13 am
Thank you, Julie! Congratulations on your upcoming book! Looks adorable.
By Candace on January 2, 2024 at 9:28 am
Nice to know there’s hope for my decade old stories😂
By Laura Rackham on January 2, 2024 at 9:28 am
Inspiring! I started my fave story 5 years ago. I finished it 3 years ago and started querying it but totally rewrote it last year and querying it in its new form. It is a process and requires patience.
By Eileen Saunders on January 2, 2024 at 9:29 am
I appreciate your analogy of writing stories to unearthing artifacts. Discovering narratives is an intricate process- some readily accessible, waiting to be discovered with minimal effort, while others demand a profound excavation! Thank you!
By cbloomy on January 2, 2024 at 9:30 am
I want to read that book! I’m glad it’s making its way into the world.
By Kate DeMaio on January 2, 2024 at 9:30 am
Spookily prescient post … today I picked up a first draft from 2020 to rework! Some bits I still love, others not so much. Not sure at this stage how much of the original will actually make it to the second draft!
By joanlongstaff on January 2, 2024 at 9:31 am
Hearing your timeline is comforting and frustrating all at the same time! I’m trying muster more patience…
By Melissa Rafson Friedman on January 2, 2024 at 9:31 am
I love this unburying idea. Very deep! 😉
By Bev on January 2, 2024 at 9:32 am
Although I know these books take time, reading your blog reinforced it once more. Reminds me to be patient but to keep looking for inspirations
Thank you
By elyset20 on January 2, 2024 at 9:33 am
Good points, all.
Julie, you opened with something akin to the Baeder-Meinhoff Effect, otherwise known as the Red Car Phenomenon. It’s about attuning your conscious or subconscious to a thing that you begin seeing it all around you.
Understanding the phenomenon helps a person self-direct it, rather like lucid dreaming.
Patience. That’s one of the most important parts of creating. Way back a hundred years ago in college studio art classes, we were taught to step back, look, take it in and leave the piece for a while, maybe move on for a while.
My first year working in kidlit was a forced professional shift. An agent at a SCBWI regional retreat told me to go back to being a shop girl in a department store. Then, a mentor revewinga different piece told me rhyme was dead and my story was way too long. The second year, an agent at another retreat told me three things. First, the story I presented was spot on in all the ways it needed to be, especially the rhyme. But it had a hole, and I probably knew where it was. I did. But I had been so concerned with word count, I ignored it.
He said put it in a drawer. Ignore it. Forget it. When the lines come, they will come. My brain needed a break from it. Six months later, in the shower….. Baeder-Meinhoff! Hole filled.
This is why I keep permanent markers in almost as many places as I keep old people glasses.
Write on the glass!
Then, he said he wanted to represent it but it wouldn’t sell, right now. Wait — several years — for the market to be receptive to the way I presented the topic. Ten years later, I’m prepping to pull it back into the light.
Will this story break through? I dunno.
If it doesn’t, I can’t let it stop me from keeping on.
Work strong and keep going, everyone!
By macsheperd on January 2, 2024 at 9:33 am
I hate that an agent told you to go back to being a shop girl. That might have broken me! I’m glad you persisted and I hope your book is warmly received!
By Jenn on January 3, 2024 at 10:46 am
I am holding this sentence tightly:Creativity isn’t an item to check off. Best advice! Thanks.
By Kathryn LeRoy on January 2, 2024 at 9:34 am
You’re so right. My book coming out LA MALA SUERTE IS FOLLOWING ME was one of these fast ones: idea, write, revise, submit and sell in less than 6 months. While a story I started writing in 2019 is still not ready. I can’t wait to read your new book. It sounds so funny.
By asiqueira1307 on January 2, 2024 at 9:34 am
Yeah, my first book happened really fast, and I was like “oh, cool, I guess this is what being a professional writer is!” And then almost every other book has taken so long.
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:17 am
A spookily prescient posting for me … just this morning I opened up a first draft from 2020 that I want to bring up to scratch – some bits I still love, others, not so much. I wonder how much will make it to the second, third and … drafts?
By joanlongstaff on January 2, 2024 at 9:34 am
Julie – Thanks so much for showing the silver lining to all the waiting that we do – more time to polish! I can hardly wait to read One Rooster – it sounds so fun.
By cindyjohnson2013 on January 2, 2024 at 9:37 am
Thank you! You’re inspiring me to go back to some of my old mss from years ago…
By julietclarebell on January 2, 2024 at 9:37 am
Thank you for the reminder to be patient! Sometimes I forget to let the story sit a bit before trying to revise it. That time really works magic!
By musingmommumble on January 2, 2024 at 9:37 am
I love the expression “pointy bits,” and the clear explanation of when something is ready to submit, thanks!
By calilona45a85051e4 on January 2, 2024 at 9:38 am
Same publisher in 2024 as contracted for the book in 2014? I have questions. Congratulations on your forthcoming book and for the insights that carry you over the finish line.
By Joyce Frank on January 2, 2024 at 9:38 am
Same publisher, yes! First everything got pushed so the sequel to my first book could be published as my second book. Then the editor left. Then the second editor left. So now it’s on its third editor, and a few major revisions with her, and finally, finally, ready to be published.
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:19 am
Cool! I have a lot of waiting PB manuscripts that resurface from time to time for revision. I’m currently revising one I started five years ago. I think it’s a final draft now!
Thanks for sharing your ideas!
By Rick Starkey on January 2, 2024 at 9:38 am
I have so, so many manuscripts that never went anywhere. I do revisit them sometimes. I keep everything! I will admit that MOST of my manuscripts don’t turn into anything submittable, and another huge percentage get submitted but don’t get book deals. And for sure the majority of those manuscripts won’t (and shouldn’t) be submitted or made into books. But I keep them because as I become a better writer, I might be able to figure out how to fix them.
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:21 am
So true! Writers have to be the most patient group of people in the world!!
By amandadriscoll553ff9d202 on January 2, 2024 at 9:39 am
This is very reassuring to know. I love the idea of unburying the real story! This is something I struggle with but from now on I will let it take as long as it takes.
By BeckyH on January 2, 2024 at 9:40 am
So true! Writers have to be the most patient people on Earth!
By amandadriscoll553ff9d202 on January 2, 2024 at 9:41 am
Congratulations on your new book, Julie! 12 years in making… that’s a story of patience! I can’t wait to read it. I’m pretty new at writing stories and your post really helped me realize that not every good story flows out of you. It may need years of patience like how you put it: digging for artifacts. Thank you for your golden nugget of advice!
By studioyuming on January 2, 2024 at 9:41 am
Wow, what an amazing story to hear after 2023 seemed like “a long time” by itself. Thanks, Julie!
Katie McEnaney
By thelogonauts on January 2, 2024 at 9:42 am
I know patience is important, but why is it so difficult? (I love the idea of roosters applying for a job!)
By lsheroan on January 2, 2024 at 9:43 am
Wow, Julie! It’s like you’ve been reading my mind! I have been talking about my frustration with being a slow writer, but you have shown me the value of it! Ty.
By kathalsey on January 2, 2024 at 9:43 am
Thank you Julie! Terrific reminder to be receptive to new ideas all around us, while being patient with the writing, revising, and publishing process. Wishing you many high fives from Oprah!
By ptnozell on January 2, 2024 at 9:43 am
I always love what you have to say, Julie. Thanks so much!
By millerritam on January 2, 2024 at 9:43 am
Thank you, Julie! I love your wisdom… “Time lets me see what’s working and what’s not in a story. It’s only by letting a draft sit for a day, a week, a month, that I can understand what it’s trying to be and shape it into that thing.” Looking forward to your new book!
By Karen Elise Finch on January 2, 2024 at 9:43 am
This was so, so encouraging, Julie! I loved what you said about certain parts of a draft helping you get your story where it needs to be, and then sometimes needing to be deleted later. I tend to hold onto those parts because, of course, they helped my story! But that doesn’t always mean they continue to serve that purpose. Sometimes it’s better to let them go and allow the story expand from there. Thank you for this insight! ♥️
By Jessica Iwanski on January 2, 2024 at 9:43 am
yes, tincture of time ( and patience!)
By snor5bddfeabba4 on January 2, 2024 at 9:44 am
Thank you, Julie. And congratulations on the long game with HELP WANTED! I needed the kick to look for stories again after a brain scramble of a holiday season.
By ginaperry2013 on January 2, 2024 at 9:44 am
Hi Gina! I’m ready to kick back into gear after the scramble of December and taking last week off, too. Bring it, 2024!
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:23 am
Thanks for the inspiration! Congratulations on your new book!
By kellybirdsong2019 on January 2, 2024 at 9:44 am
Thank you for sharing your story! It is so interesting to hear how long it can take for the true story to find its way out
By Jennifer on January 2, 2024 at 9:46 am
Is there a record for book simmering under contract? If not, Help Wanted: One Rooster may have achieved it! This book just went onto my Want to Read list.
By Joyce Uglow on January 2, 2024 at 9:46 am
I’d be curious about some other long-under-contract books! I bet mine isn’t the winner.
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:23 am
Hi Julie. So patience is definitely a virtue in all parts of the writing process and also the post-writing agony… Thank you.
By flewk1 on January 2, 2024 at 9:46 am
Digging artifacts! The visual works me for, thanks. I imagine brushing off dirt, uncovering details, brush more, uncover more… repeat… repeat. Best of luck hiring one rooster. Giggle!
By Lorraine on January 2, 2024 at 9:47 am
Thanks for inspiring sharing the story behind your new story (which I can’t wait to read), Julie! It’s a good reminder to be patient and take breaks with a manuscript.
By Robin Brett Wechsler on January 2, 2024 at 9:47 am
I’m with Joyce Uglow! This post has helped me change my perspective about the time it takes! Thanks Julie!
By Writer on the run on January 2, 2024 at 9:50 am
I’ve also had books that have taken years to find a home. To survive in the writing world, you certainly need patience! Congratulations on a very funny book!
By Rachelle Burk on January 2, 2024 at 9:55 am
Thank you, Julie. I love your wisdom….”Time lets me see what’s working and what’s not in a story. It’s only by letting a draft sit for a day, a week, a month, that I can understand what it’s trying to be and shape it into that thing.”
By Karen Elise Finch on January 2, 2024 at 9:56 am
Thanks for the reminder to be patient. It’s one of my hardest things. Oh! Maybe there’s a story in there!
By shari della penna on January 2, 2024 at 9:58 am
Persistence is key. Thanks for the advice and for sharing. That’s inspiration!
By schellijo on January 2, 2024 at 9:59 am
I want to say that’s a long time, but it’s publishing, so…Ouf! Congrats on the new book!
By paulajbecker on January 2, 2024 at 9:59 am
Yeah, seriously, it’s like 6 weeks in publishing time.
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:24 am
Love the archaeology dig aspect.
By topangamaria on January 2, 2024 at 10:01 am
Here’s a fun one: look at your storystorm list from LAST YEAR. This is a nice trip, especially if you haven’t looked at it in a while. Sometimes little idea kernels from a year ago will suddenly be entire emotional arcs. Can’t rush time!
By Becca McMurdie on January 2, 2024 at 10:02 am
I have ALL my Storystorm ideas in the same notebook. Years and years of ideas! It’s fun to go back through them, and sometimes one sticks out. (And a lot of the time, I have no idea what the idea was even supposed to be. It seems like a random list of non sequiturs.)
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:25 am
Great advice. It takes time to polish a gem.
By Cheryl Keely on January 2, 2024 at 10:02 am
Good morning! Thank you for another year of Storystorm and the inspiration it provides for me. My apologies but, after years and years of participation, I have somehow botched it this time around. I registered under my name–Sallye O’Rourke–but when I went to comment on day one, I was sent to WordPress, not sure what I did, but I see the following when I post (instead of my name): snor5bddfeabba4 Of course, I’d hate to miss any opportunity to win a prize! How might I correct this snafu on my part? Best, Sallye O’Rourke
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By snor5bddfeabba4 on January 2, 2024 at 10:04 am
Hey Julie! You sure have some patience waiting 12 years. I’m sure you’re pumped for it to finally see the light of day. Congrats and can’t wait to read it.
By bgonsar on January 2, 2024 at 10:04 am
Oh yeah, seriously, it’s going to be so weird to have this book finally come out. For sure there were a few years where I thought it would never happen.
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:26 am
It’s like stories are artifacts we’re unburying, and some are fairly clean and close to the surface, and for some you have to dig for miles and clean off a lot of dirt before you even know what you’re looking at.
I wanted to be an archaeologist as a kid – and this makes me feel like i achieved one of my childhood dreams 🙂
Thanks for the wise words and congrats on your book!
By kelliearted on January 2, 2024 at 10:04 am
This is really helpful to hear, thank you! Sometimes I feel like I need to get books out ASAP but timing is so important!
By brightwishbooks on January 2, 2024 at 10:04 am
Needed that reminder! It’s a marathon. Not a sprint.
By Apryl Lee on January 2, 2024 at 10:05 am
Congrats on the publication of your book!
This is a great post! All the tips are helpful and very appreciated! Thanks for putting a good sense to the finding ideas in everyday life ! Happy 2024!
By E. Brooks on January 2, 2024 at 10:07 am
Thank you for the reminder that it’s okay to take a breath and a step back and slow our frantic pace trying to get a story out into the world. I love that your characters evolved during their waiting period and the story is now even stronger!
By sblotevogel on January 2, 2024 at 10:08 am
Wow, thanks so much, Julie and congrats!
Sent from my iPad
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By gmom67 on January 2, 2024 at 10:08 am
I have come to really enjoy revising. Now my problem is knowing when to stop!
By Loralee Petersen on January 2, 2024 at 10:10 am
Congratulations on the new book! From an old draft—great lesson here, Julie. Thank you for so many quotables in this post.
By Jane Heitman Healy on January 2, 2024 at 10:10 am
Thank you for your inspiration. Your pep talk was exactly what I needed this morning. : )
By Tracey Kiff-Judson on January 2, 2024 at 10:12 am
The story sounds cute. I like what you mentioned about reworking a story. I have over 20 versions of a story that works so well in my head! The latest revision was summarized into 50 words for Vivienne Kirkland’s 50 Precious Words contest and won an HM! (It’s the story I can’t leave- ha)
By reedandwritekids on January 2, 2024 at 10:13 am
I think everyone who writes picture books understands this down to their bones which is why it’s over-the-top annoying when some hack comes along and says they wrote a book in ten minutes!
Thanks, Julie! And looking forward to meeting the rooster who got hired. 😉
Laura Roettiger
By authorlaurablog on January 2, 2024 at 10:13 am
Inspiring story, thanks for sharing.
By Kathy Ceceri on January 2, 2024 at 10:15 am
Ahh, patience—I keep hearing that and I tell myself everyday take your time. But, it’s so hard to hold back sending out that magnifiscent manuscript! Haha. thanks for the reminder. Best wishes in 2024. Congrats!
By leslieevatayloe on January 2, 2024 at 10:15 am
12 years! It’s your book bat mitzvah! Mazal tov! Can’t wait to read it! 🙂
By stiefelchana on January 2, 2024 at 10:19 am
!!! I love that! Maybe I should throw a book launch where a bunch of awkward tweens dance while all the grandparents and aunts look on disapprovingly.
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:29 am
LOL! Please invite me…and host it in a barn with a bunch of clucking hens, and maybe a rooster!
By stiefelchana on January 2, 2024 at 2:35 pm
I love the artifact metaphor–and I just made some fairly major revisions to a manuscript acquired 6 years ago and now about to go out to an illustrator. Luckily, the editor loves the changes! Thanks for this lovely post and reminders…
By Laura Purdie Salas on January 2, 2024 at 10:19 am
Oh wow, I love that. It’s so amazing to realize there is a way to make major changes and still keep the heart of the story. It’s stuff like that that always makes me feel like A Writer.
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:30 am
This is a great post! It’s exactly what I needed to hear. Thank you, Julie.
By cathybreisacher on January 2, 2024 at 10:23 am
Thank you, Julie! I miss your video updates! So nice to read your post this morning! Happy New Year!
By Melissa McDaniel on January 2, 2024 at 10:24 am
Hi Melissa! I think about doing the videos again — I like doing them! But they took so much time. It’s something I’m looking at for this year — how can I get all the writing done I want to and also do things like the videos and more frequent newsletters.
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:31 am
I am a Snappsy fan.
By krharrellnw on January 2, 2024 at 10:28 am
Love the reminder that “It’s a magic trick to take your invisible brain thoughts and form them into real words and stories.” Thanks Julie!
By Cathy Ballou Mealey on January 2, 2024 at 10:29 am
Congratulations for your new book, Julie. And thank you for the nudge for perseveering (I know I need it)
By ralucasirbu on January 2, 2024 at 10:31 am
Thank you for the reminder that time can be our friend, rather than the enemy. Great things cannot be rushed.
By Sondra Zalewski on January 2, 2024 at 10:32 am
I can so relate to this, and appreciate the reminder to take whatever time it takes! Thank you.
By lindakaychavezbooks on January 2, 2024 at 10:33 am
I’ve learned that this is why drafting out the idea (no matter how ugly the first attempt is) is so important! It’s all about letting stories simmer and evolve. Thanks for the reminder 🙂
By ellen seal on January 2, 2024 at 10:33 am
Thank you for the reminder that patience is a virtue!
By M.R. on January 2, 2024 at 10:35 am
Great advice. I love it that the final ending took so long to figure out. Now I want to read this one! Thanks.
By nancyakolb1 on January 2, 2024 at 10:36 am
I needed to hear this. Many have tried to rush me along as if the idea had an expiration date! Thank you!
By Jan Hoffman on January 2, 2024 at 10:40 am
So interesting! I’d love you to share how involved the editor was in the revision process during the many years in between the signing of the contract and the publication of your book. Big congrats, Julie!
By Susan Hughes on January 2, 2024 at 10:41 am
There were a few different editors, so that was part of the issue. I’m definitely going to be sharing more of the process for this book (in my newsletter) as it gets closer to publication.
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:33 am
Ah, thanks, Julie!
By Susan Hughes on January 2, 2024 at 11:35 am
Nothing like reading a manuscript one week to one year later for an oomph of inspiration.
By Lori D on January 2, 2024 at 10:41 am
This is such great advice, and so inspiring!
By jcaritas on January 2, 2024 at 10:42 am
Your new book sounds like a lot of fun and I’m looking forward to reading it. Thanks for sharing the book’s journey as a reminder that patience and perserverance are necessary tools for us as writers.
By Penny Parker Klostermann on January 2, 2024 at 10:43 am
12 years? Wow.
By Elena Horne on January 2, 2024 at 10:43 am
Thank you Julie ♥️
By saintamovin on January 2, 2024 at 10:43 am
Hope Smith
By hopeanitasmith on January 2, 2024 at 10:44 am
Thanks, Julie, for your wise words. It’s really hard sometimes to wait and give the story time but it’s great advice. Congrats on your newest PB!
By mdk45 on January 2, 2024 at 10:44 am
I love the paleontology analogy – thanks for sharing these thoughts, your process, and they story of your upcoming release!
By laureannawrites on January 2, 2024 at 10:46 am
Each book takes the time it takes! Good luck with this new title. It looks adorable!
By Carol Gordon Ekster on January 2, 2024 at 10:46 am
Congratulations on your book launch, Julie! It sounds like a fantastic story. I can’t wait to see it on shelves.
By robynhawkinson on January 2, 2024 at 10:46 am
Thank you for the reminder that we need to be patient . “All good things come to she who waits”-hopefully.
By elyset20 on January 2, 2024 at 10:48 am
The pep talk I needed!
By greengirlblueplanet on January 2, 2024 at 10:48 am
Thank you Julie 😍
By saintamovin on January 2, 2024 at 10:49 am
Congratulations, and well done letting a story breathe. That’s so hard to do!
By karammitchell on January 2, 2024 at 10:49 am
Patience is not a flower that blooms in my garden, at least not the kind of patience you described in your post. WOW! However, you nudged the tiny flames of inspiration and hope inside me today. I think I’ll take the story I’d locked in the dungeon of my heart, the story I’d wanted to write to soothe my daughter’s grieving heart, and breathe color back into it. Thank you!
By susanjobskya73d148763 on January 2, 2024 at 10:49 am
Congratulations on your book deal! The story looks like so much fun! And yes, this industry takes time and is truly for the patient. Thank you for this inspiring post. 🙂
By Lindsey Aduskevich on January 2, 2024 at 10:51 am
Congratulations on your book =)
By Angel Gantnier on January 2, 2024 at 10:51 am
So very true! And it’s hard for us impatient people to remember, so thanks for the reminder!
By kirstenbockblog on January 2, 2024 at 10:52 am
Thanks for this ! Have a few of those manuscripts that I keep coming back too,but haven’t truly figured them out yet so it’s encouraging to hear!:)
By Zach Roush on January 2, 2024 at 10:53 am
It’s so true that some stories need more time to marinate. Can’t wait to read it!
By Joanna Rowland on January 2, 2024 at 10:53 am
What a wonderful, thoughtful reflection on writing, germination of ideas & creation of picture books! I look forward to ONE ROOSTER’s debut into the world!
By Katherine@katherinepew.com on January 2, 2024 at 10:55 am
Thank you Julie! Your new book sounds so funny!
p.s. Thank you for your newsletter too.
By Janet AlJunaidi on January 2, 2024 at 10:56 am
Thank you, Janet!
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:33 am
This book looks so fun! I can’t wait to read it.
By Kim A Larson on January 2, 2024 at 10:57 am
Congrats on your book, Julie! And nice remember patience and the joy and reward of persistence.
By laurelneme on January 2, 2024 at 10:57 am
Thanks for this great advice. And congratulations! Love hearing the story of how books get their genesis and get published.
By bevbaird on January 2, 2024 at 10:59 am
Love your humor! Congrats on the new book.
By Andrea Denish on January 2, 2024 at 10:59 am
Awesome post, Julie! Makes me feel better about ignoring some of those troublesome MSs for a while. Love the premise of Help Wanted!
By karenrafeedie on January 2, 2024 at 11:05 am
This is encouraging. It describes my writing process every time, and I’m always saying I must be a slow writer as I see others writing PBs in a few drafts. I submitted for the first time a couple months ago, and these are stories I’ve been working on for several years. Thank you for this blog post. ❤️
By aubreyalliethewriter on January 2, 2024 at 11:06 am
I think that’s totally smart. I wrote for years before I started submitting. I really wanted the manuscripts I had ready to go to be as good as I could make them (one of them was Help Wanted: One Rooster, actually — this book has been around in my brain and on my computer for a long time). Take your time! No one will be able to tell how long a book took to write once it’s published. But they will be able to tell that it’s expertly crafted, and that takes time.
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:36 am
Ack! I just adore Julie’s humor and would love to attend her revision class! Great advice on letting things simmer. And good to know published author idols get inspiration ten years later, too ☺️
By Amy M. Miller on January 2, 2024 at 11:07 am
❤️
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:36 am
This resonates with me, as well, thank you!
By lisarowefraustino on January 2, 2024 at 11:07 am
Julie, you’ve given me hope for some of the stories languishing in the depths of my files, as well as the new story ideas coming to light this month in StoryStorm. Thank you so much, and CONGRATULATIONS to you!
By writeremmcbride on January 2, 2024 at 11:08 am
Oh, Julie… Your words and encouragement made my morning. I’ve been digging into storytelling for five years now. Time with a story can take it from “good” to “great.” Many times, I’ve dusted off stories that I’d submitted years ago to reread with “new eyes,” better storytelling eyes. And suddenly, as if I’m wearing a new prescription, I see what I’d missed after all those revisions…after all that time. What a journey we’re all traveling! Bravo for your success! Sending you energy and inspiration…
By marshaelyn on January 2, 2024 at 11:08 am
It sounds like this book was worth the wait, Julie. Can’t wait to see it. Thank you for this post!
By Arlene Schenker on January 2, 2024 at 11:08 am
I’d love to attend the revision class! I’m just at the beginning of my writing journey and need all the help and inspiration I can get! Storystorm is great for this, btw!
By Helen M. Waters on January 2, 2024 at 11:08 am
This is so reassuring! Some books I have written very quickly, but I find they have to marinate for me to understand what they are trying to tell me! I AM NOT ALONE!
By write4you2000 on January 2, 2024 at 11:09 am
Thanks so much for the personal tour of your process, Julie. I loved hearing about dropping characters after a period of time and giving a manuscript the time it needs. I can’t believe how many opportunities to submit I’ve waste by rushing. Thus said, your encouragement to show more patience opens the doors to others which may be even greater. Looking forward to reading HELP WANTED: ONE ROOSTER.
By Judy Abelove Shemtob on January 2, 2024 at 11:10 am
Dear Lara, Thank you for this interesting email. Congratulations on your next book. Sincerely, Amy Finegold
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
By amybeth349 on January 2, 2024 at 11:11 am
Thank you, Julie! Wonderful to hear about this long-simmering story, as I have so many characters that haven’t made it to print yet and who I’m still rooting for and advocating for.
By Cedar Pruitt on January 2, 2024 at 11:12 am
Hi Cedar!
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:37 am
Dear Lara, Great thoughts! Sincerely, Amy Finegold
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
By amybeth349 on January 2, 2024 at 11:15 am
The archaeological metaphor is so timely for me; my kids just did one of those miniature excavation kits where you chip and brush away at a block of faux sand to find an artifact/treasure inside! Very vivid. Thanks for writing, Julie!
By vanessakaybooks on January 2, 2024 at 11:15 am
I love those little kits! But I will admit I was always like, “hey kids, this is an OUTSIDE SUMMERTIME toy!” All of those grains of faux sand. I can’t deal. Now my teenagers hold up jars of glitter when we’re at Target and say, “Look, it’s your NIGHTMARE.”
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 11:39 am
Great advice. I especially like—Take your time. Thank you.
By jms5880 on January 2, 2024 at 11:18 am
Brilliant advice! I have tried to do this on my own & felt like I was procrastinating. You have validated the time. Thank you for a great article!
By lisa331286e7d592b on January 2, 2024 at 12:37 pm
Congratulations. HELP WANTED: ONE ROOSTER sounds like fun. Thanks for sharing the joy and the timeline.
By bethsbiblio on January 2, 2024 at 11:18 am
Wow…TEN years from contract to publication? That’s got to be some kind of record. But, it sounds like that gave you the time you needed to dig deep and discover who the characters really are. I look forward to reading it!
By Laura Perdew on January 2, 2024 at 11:18 am
It may take time, but it’s exciting to see a manuscript take shape as you discover that one word, that one action, that one character that feels just right. Thanks for the great advice!
By Peggy Dobbs on January 2, 2024 at 11:19 am
The waiting is hard, but will be so worth it!
By jessaroux on January 2, 2024 at 11:21 am
Love, love this post, thank you! Patience is so hard, especially being a “check things off the to-do list” type person as well. I resolve to be better at taking my time in 2024!
By Karin Larson on January 2, 2024 at 11:21 am
Thanks for the reminder that time is a big part of the process! 🙂
By beckylevine on January 2, 2024 at 11:23 am
Snappsy is a delightful book, and I appreciate the message about taking one’s time. That more than applies to me!
By audiencedog on January 2, 2024 at 11:23 am
Congratulations on your new book! ! I can’t wait to read it!
By Linda KulpTrout on January 2, 2024 at 11:26 am
Thank you, Julie. It’s wonderfully refreshing to read your encouraging words, reminding us that writing takes time and inspiring us to roll up our sleeves, grab a shovel, and do some digging. I’m looking forward to reading Help Wanted: One Rooster. It sounds so fun!
By Annelouise on January 2, 2024 at 11:27 am
An encouraging reminder that patience is a virtue. Thank you!
By Carla Gullett on January 2, 2024 at 11:31 am
Thank you for the reminder that some things take more time than others.
By mariautumn7c81b37a0a on January 2, 2024 at 11:33 am
Thank you! Such great advice. 🥰
By Karen Gebbia on January 2, 2024 at 11:34 am
Thanks for your encouragement to be patient and to keep writing. And congrats on your new book!
By Sharlin Craig on January 2, 2024 at 11:34 am
Time! What a great post. Thanks, Julie!
By Janice Woods on January 2, 2024 at 11:36 am
Thanks for sharing this time frame, why rush? Some stories simply need to marinate before they reach peak flavor.
By safajar on January 2, 2024 at 11:38 am
Great advice! Leaving a book alone for a while before revising is invaluable – you pick up on so many things you didn’t see before
By claireflewis on January 2, 2024 at 11:39 am
That hit home. I had a book that took 7 years and then there was this one that got accepted right away. This has inspired me to revisit some I had given up hope on. Thank you!
By Rina Singh on January 2, 2024 at 11:40 am
What a fun book!
Thank you for the tip to be patient with our stories.
By Armineh Manookian on January 2, 2024 at 11:40 am
“uncovering artifacts” Perfect imagery for me throughout this post. Thanks for sharing the journey of Help Wanted: One Rooster. Congrats!
By Dea Brayden on January 2, 2024 at 11:44 am
Thanks Julie for the Future-Tripping!!!
By Jany Campana on January 2, 2024 at 11:45 am
Stories come at their own timelines!
By Mikki McFeve on January 2, 2024 at 11:45 am
I love this! I’m hoping that “time” will also move me from the unpublished to published category!
By Andrea Mack on January 2, 2024 at 11:46 am
I like how you said “It’s a magic trick to take your invisible brain thoughts and form them into real words and stories.” What a cool way to describe writing and creativity! Thanks for the encouragement to keep writing and be patient.
By Sharlin Craig on January 2, 2024 at 11:48 am
This gives me hope! I’ve been ‘sitting’ on a manuscript I wrote and revised (many times) a few years ago. I think it’s time to pull it out again. Thank you!!
By Laurie Bouck on January 2, 2024 at 11:48 am
What an inspiring message: that time is the ingredient that can make your draft sing. Thank you! (I tried to post this but I had a login issue so I apologize if this posted twice!)
By literacylizlazar on January 2, 2024 at 11:48 am
Wow! What a long journey for your book! True that each book has its own journey! Thanks for sharing this one!
By Tonnye Fletcher on January 2, 2024 at 11:49 am
This post really resonated with me, Julie. I have quite a few stories on the slow braise, but as in cooking, the results are often far tastier than the insta-pot method. I just need to keep reminding myself of that fact!
By clairebobrow on January 2, 2024 at 11:52 am
There’s a line from a Tom Petty song…the waiting is the hardest part! I struggle with the impatience of waiting for characters to develop, plot details to materialize, critique feedback to resonate, etc.
By djasonjoneswrites on January 2, 2024 at 11:53 am
This is lovely! Can’t wait to read this 12-years-in-the-making story!!
By Sally on January 2, 2024 at 11:53 am
Thanks, Julie. Your post was a satisfying way to start the day.
By Garnett Natasha on January 2, 2024 at 11:55 am
What a wonderfully encouraging post! Thank you Julie!
By kaleegwarjanski on January 2, 2024 at 11:56 am
PATIENCE…why doth thou forsake me? Thank you for this beautiful reminder that the universe unfolds exactly how it’s meant, whether it fits my timeframe or not. Congratulations on your upcoming release. I can’t wait to read it!
By inquirylane on January 2, 2024 at 11:58 am
What a great post. Thanks so much, Julie!
By Janice Woods on January 2, 2024 at 11:58 am
I tend to always feel like I have to hurry. Thank you for the reminder to take the time that each book needs. Great post, Julie!
By arndt4writing on January 2, 2024 at 12:01 pm
I’m a checklist person too. Sometimes I just want to get the thing done and checked off my life list haha
By Bhandi on January 2, 2024 at 12:02 pm
Love this! As we’re entering a new year, with new goals, so many of mine are the same I’ve had for years… Keep revising and revisiting those stories and send some away! 😉 Thanks for sharing your insights!
-Juli Caveny (also “Juliann” 😉 I always forget which device I’m posting from.)
By julicaveny on January 2, 2024 at 12:02 pm
Thanks for the reminder that we need to give stories time to evolve into the story they need to be. I’m looking forward to Help Wanted One Rooster.
By Carol Gwin Nelson on January 2, 2024 at 12:02 pm
A welcome reminder that patience is a part of the journey for all of us! Thanks for sharing.
By michelemeleen on January 2, 2024 at 12:02 pm
Your revision barometer, “when there aren’t any more pointy points that poke me” is going to stick with me. Perfect! (And I look forward to reading your books.)
By Laurie Seaford on January 2, 2024 at 12:03 pm
Your post really resonated with me, Julie. Can’t wait to unbury some great artifacts in 2024! Also, your upcoming book looks hilarious and I’m adding it to my Goodreads list 🙂
By Kristi Mahoney on January 2, 2024 at 12:04 pm
This resonates with me. I think most of life simmers like this.
By TimMelanie Tomic on January 2, 2024 at 12:04 pm
Patience is so crucial in this field -or any other creative field! Congrats, Julie!
By danielledufayet on January 2, 2024 at 12:05 pm
I’ll be looking out for HELP WANTED: ONE ROOSTER. It sounds hilarious. Thank you for sharing your process and for encouraging us to take our time because there is truly no rush. Patience and perseverance are a must in this business.
By Angela De Groot on January 2, 2024 at 12:05 pm
Time is a confounding construct!
By maureenegan on January 2, 2024 at 12:06 pm
Wonderful, Julie. Congrats!
By Annie Guerra on January 2, 2024 at 12:07 pm
So encouraging to be patient. Can’t wait to read Help Wanted: One Rooster
By svaisnoras on January 2, 2024 at 12:09 pm
Thank you for the great advice, Julie. My goal is to flesh out ideas and not give up on them before I even start. It’s the getting it down part that gets me, so your words of wisdom have helped.
By rosecappelli on January 2, 2024 at 12:10 pm
I can’t wait to read Help Wanted: One Rooster! Thanks for the encouragement, and for the reminder to give stories the time they need!
By Diane O'Neill on January 2, 2024 at 12:10 pm
Sometimes that long time is due to not having an agent or not knowing how to write an effective query.
By mphollinsheadyahoocom on January 2, 2024 at 12:16 pm
HELP WANTED: ONE ROOSTER sounds delightful! I’ve added it to my book wish list. This is a great reminder to take our time and not rush the process. I once had an editor tell me I had “superhuman patience.” I loved that she thought that. I totally don’t, ha, but I know these things take time.
By serendipityinstars on January 2, 2024 at 12:16 pm
Perfect reminder at the beginning of the new year when we’re all excited and setting goals — “some will take much longer, which is, frankly, fascinating” — and that fascination is part of what keeps us pulling out new ideas even as we add new ones.
By Val M on January 2, 2024 at 12:19 pm
It’s like they say, time is the wisest counselor of all. It teaches us about patience and wants us to enjoy the process. Thank you for the reminder!
By lavern15 on January 2, 2024 at 12:20 pm
Interesting. Now I am thinking it could be that the easy stories to tell, on the surface of my consciousness, may have been written, and it might be time to dig deep for the hard ones. Thanks Julie!
By Heather Kinser on January 2, 2024 at 12:22 pm
Thank you for this, Julie! I love stories like this about how it can 10 years to get a book out into the world. It inspires me to persevere! ~Lauren Simmons
By lnsimmons23 on January 2, 2024 at 12:24 pm
I’ll be mulling on this sentence for quite some time: “It’s like stories are artifacts we’re unburying, and some are fairly clean and close to the surface, and for some you have to dig for miles and clean off a lot of dirt before you even know what you’re looking at.” Thank you, Julie, for the reminder to revisit some of the stories I’ve set aside/lost steam on.
By Dawn Prochovnic on January 2, 2024 at 12:26 pm
I love the idea of digging up our hidden gems.
Sharon Nix Jones
By mommamoocow on January 2, 2024 at 12:26 pm
Thank you for this perspective. I have stories that I’ve been working on for years. This gives me courage to get them out again and unearth some more.
By lphunt on January 2, 2024 at 12:27 pm
Oo, this post sparked a couple new ideas! Thanks, Julie, and congrats on your upcoming book.
By Susan Johnston Taylor on January 2, 2024 at 12:28 pm
In the middle of a big revision of my MG novel, and this post applies! Thanks for the reminder, which I will refer to often in the coming year!
By michelleleewritesmagic on January 2, 2024 at 12:29 pm
The back story behind Help Wanted is fascinating & helps me feel not quite so alone in this journey. It’s wise to heed those prickly bits!
By yangmommy on January 2, 2024 at 12:29 pm
Oh my goodness! I love the analogy of “unburying” the story. While so many of my stories come in rush I often let them “rest” or “simmer” so hearing that is part of the process you’ve experience gives me hope! Thank you again for the words of encouragement.
By syorkeviney on January 2, 2024 at 12:30 pm
Thank you for sharing. The preview pages for HELP WANTED: ONE ROOSTER on your website look amazing. I look forward to reading the whole book!
By Katie marie on January 2, 2024 at 12:34 pm
Holy Moly! What a publication story! Thanks for telling it like it is and for giving me a shot of courage. I adore the premise of this book and the cover is irresistible. Can’t wait to share HELP WANTED: ONE ROOSTER with my grandkids!
By Gretchen McLellan on January 2, 2024 at 12:35 pm
Thank you for your perspective on time Julie. I look forward to reading Help Wanted: One Rooster. It looks great.
By Jamie Bills on January 2, 2024 at 12:35 pm
I see stories wherever I go! Yay! #imlegit!
By natashaffdfd87f06 on January 2, 2024 at 12:35 pm
Congratulations on your new book – it sounds delightful! Thanks for a great post, reminding us to let our ideas percolate and sharing your personal story of just how long this journey can sometimes take.
By sue macartney on January 2, 2024 at 12:37 pm
Thank you, Julie, for sharing your writing journey. What an inspiring and rewarding post.
By judyrubin13 on January 2, 2024 at 12:39 pm
Congratulations and I can’t wait to read your book. A great reminder to put a manuscript away and then return to it with a clear mind. Thank you!
By Christina Dankert on January 2, 2024 at 12:40 pm
“Prickly bits”! Great description of those words/lines/scenes that just don’t fit. Thanks for the encouraging words. I love your stories and can’t wait to read “Help Wanted: One Rooster”.
By lisanevada on January 2, 2024 at 12:41 pm
Great post–thanks! Some days it’s so hard to be patient. It’s good to know everyone has the same problems.
By Linda Staszak on January 2, 2024 at 12:44 pm
I love the comparison of stories to artifacts we are trying to uncover. So true! I also can’t wait to read Help Wanted: One Rooster. It sounds hilarious.
By rgstones on January 2, 2024 at 12:45 pm
Thank you for the post. I am encouraged now as I have a picture book manuscript that needs revision. I received a sound rejection of it, accompanied by several suggestions. I have been letting it sit there for a while. I will make sure to go back to that project again at some point this year.
By cassiazaven on January 2, 2024 at 12:46 pm
Thank you for your great post! Excited to go back through old manuscripts today…
By Michelle Howell on January 2, 2024 at 12:48 pm
Thanks for this fun reminder that there is no point in being in a hurry and every point in reworking a story until it actually works.
By Christine Graham on January 2, 2024 at 12:49 pm
Julie, I loved reading about the winding road to your new PB being published. Thanks for sharing!
By charlottesheer on January 2, 2024 at 12:50 pm
Great post. Sometimes, the best thing to do is take some time away from a story to come back to it later on. Thank you!
By leahmoserwrites on January 2, 2024 at 12:52 pm
Good advise!
By pescadita98 on January 3, 2024 at 9:49 pm
I have no faith in a book that just came to the author, spitted out and submitted. I too am a firm believer in giving stories the gift of time. Mine simmer, the characters live in my head for years, and the semantics and syntax are worked and reworked.
By Antoinette Truglio Martin on January 2, 2024 at 12:52 pm
I am surprised to hear that you newest book sat with a deal for ten years! I’ve been working on a story for two years and was beginning to think it was time to let it go. Thanks for your post!
By Debbie Merlo Arnn on January 2, 2024 at 12:57 pm
Thanks for the reminder. I have a ten year old (if not older) draft that I believe in, but it’s not getting anywhere. I keep looking for different angles. This gives me hope.
By ellenl611f26fb68 on January 2, 2024 at 12:58 pm
Thank you for the permission and encouragement to not rush. This is tough when you are dreaming of becoming published.
By thehugbooks on January 2, 2024 at 12:58 pm
Love this! “It’s like stories are artifacts we’re unburying, and some are fairly clean and close to the surface, and for some you have to dig for miles and clean off a lot of dirt before you even know what you’re looking at.”
By ejdthomasville on January 2, 2024 at 12:58 pm
Hi Julie – I totally resonate with you post. Thank you! And you got me thinking that maybe the stories aren’t buried deep but we (the writer) aren’t formed enough at the time of the idea to write the story. Like we have to evolve and grow as writers before the idea works. Anyway, thanks again!! Look forward to reading your book.
By Kimberly Marcus on January 2, 2024 at 12:58 pm
Thank you for sharing your story. Perseverance is key.
By Adriana Gutierrez on January 2, 2024 at 12:58 pm
Thanks for today’s encouragement. You certainly show patience and perseverance! I need to remind myself often that this writing business often takes a long time.
By Mary Zychowicz on January 2, 2024 at 12:59 pm
I keep wanting to put a timeline on revising and my manuscripts keep shoving my chest saying, “No! I know you wanted me to be finished by the end of 2023, but I’m not ready yet!” Thank you for your always wise words, Julie.
By Jessica Burbank on January 2, 2024 at 1:01 pm
Great advise for this impatient writer- thank you!
By Tara Cerven on January 2, 2024 at 1:02 pm
Great advice, thanks! I love the idea of stories as artifacts to dig up, and appreciate the encouragement for the stories that need to gather dust for a while!
By Lisa Billa on January 2, 2024 at 1:02 pm
Hi, thanks for your post, it’s so true, stories do take their own time to come.
By sareenmclay on January 2, 2024 at 1:04 pm
Thank you for reminding us that good things take time.
By daydreambelievin on January 2, 2024 at 1:05 pm
Thank you for the inspiration! We all need these reminders sometimes.
By anchance on January 2, 2024 at 1:05 pm
Thank you!
By Emily on January 2, 2024 at 1:06 pm
It was very interesting to read about your writing process and the need to revise and let the story come into what it is meant to be. Thanks for sharing!
By susanahearn45 on January 2, 2024 at 1:06 pm
This daily post was so enlightening and validating for writing and re-writing and re-envisioning a story. I never thought once a story was submitted and accepted there would be more work and revising to be done before the final illustrations and printing.
It was eye- opening. Thank you Julie
By Sheri Radovich on January 2, 2024 at 1:09 pm
Oh, yes. TIME and patience! Thanks for the encouragement! And congrats on the new picture book!
Angie Quantrell
By Angie on January 2, 2024 at 1:10 pm
This is a great reminder that sometimes you need to let it rest on the back burner for a bit. Thank you for sharing and congratulations on your book!
-Jess H
By Jess Hedaria on January 2, 2024 at 1:12 pm
A great lesson in patience. I can’t wait to read your new book – sounds hilarious!
By kelpellico on January 2, 2024 at 1:12 pm
Great advice! Patience is key. Thanks, Julie!
By mariamarianayagam on January 2, 2024 at 1:14 pm
I’ve had the same experience with a book taking its time. Congrats on your book finding its time to be published!
By Joy Wieder on January 2, 2024 at 1:15 pm
Thank you for the advice and congratulations on your book, Julie!
By heidikyates on January 2, 2024 at 1:16 pm
Help Wanted: One Rooster sounds like a fun book that children will want to read over and over again. Congratulations! I am working on my patience. Thanks for the reminder!
By Karen on January 2, 2024 at 1:18 pm
Wow! The amount of time is mind blowing, but also thank you for sharing! That is really helpful to hear. Congratulations on the book!
By heatherbell37 on January 2, 2024 at 1:20 pm
Thanks for taking some of the guilt away for simmering over stories for ages!
By emmelineillustration on January 2, 2024 at 1:20 pm
I’ve always wanted to be an archeologist. So now’s my chance. I have lots of manuscripts that need a little more digging into.
By wvsmarties on January 2, 2024 at 1:22 pm
Thankyou for sharing. It’s a great reminder that stories can take time, sometimes more than we want, and rewriting is an important part of the process.
By smfossett on January 2, 2024 at 1:24 pm
Thanks for your encouraging post! Some ideas do need to simmer quite a while!
By fleischmana6 on January 2, 2024 at 1:24 pm
Thank you for this insightful post! I have recently discovered that some MS *do* need time. Time to breath, flourish and grow into ready stories. I just had a breakthrough with a story I started in 2021 and it finally feels like it is ready to be shared! ~Brandy Bellittera
By thetattooedwriter31 on January 2, 2024 at 1:28 pm
This gives me a shot of hope for my story idea which began in 2011!
By Trine Grillo on January 2, 2024 at 1:31 pm
JULIE: You are SO RIGHT: “. . . stories are artifacts we’re unburying.” And sometimes we need to actually bury the stories to allow them to be excavated at the right time–once they’ve had time to develop through all those layers of dust they accumulate. THANK YOU for the INSPIRATION to get out those pickaxes–or shovels–and GET TO WORK!
By Natalie Lynn Tanner on January 2, 2024 at 1:31 pm
I appreciate the math of how long it takes for some stories to be discovered—puts the process and industry into great perspective.
By Susan Cabael on January 2, 2024 at 1:32 pm
Julie, I love the enthusiasm in your post. It’s just enough to get me to write a new first draft! Thank you!…Your book looks ADORABLE!
By kathydoherty1 on January 2, 2024 at 1:33 pm
I am a big fan of checking off the to-do list too, but I really appreciate these reminders and stories that help remind me just how long some things can take – and to let them simmer and do their thing!
By Lauren Henry on January 2, 2024 at 1:35 pm
Can’t wait to read your new book! I still think the original Snappsy is one of my favorite picture books ever! How sobering to hear the “real” data behind how long it takes to publish, but it’s a wakeup we all need sometimes!
By Melanie Manzer Kyer on January 2, 2024 at 1:36 pm
Thank you, Melanie! And it doesn’t USUALLY take ten years for a book to be published. When I do school visits, I ask the kids how long they think it takes for a book to go from idea to finished book, and they’re always like, “3 weeks?” So: more than three weeks, less than ten years.
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 1:43 pm
Love that archeology analogy and your experience of giving stories the time they need. Congrats on your book and persistence!
By kimtso7 on January 2, 2024 at 1:37 pm
Julie, you must be a distant cousin to biblical Job. Maybe all writers are. Your book looks like it is worth the wait. Thank you for the post on patience.
By Sue Eyerman on January 2, 2024 at 1:38 pm
Thank you for your post, Julie! You validated the value of some of my more geriatric story ideas. 10 years from contract to pub—and the publisher was ok with that? Just curious. As an illustrator, my end of a book is always so deadline-driven.
By kategarchinskybooks on January 2, 2024 at 1:39 pm
Some stories really do surface rather clean, but most are found deep down and tangled in roots and rocks, sometimes under hard clay. So I don’t totally give up on my stories if I think they one day may have a chance of seeing daylight in their much revised totality. Then comes the polishing. Truly a long, long process!
By Marie Prins on January 2, 2024 at 1:45 pm
Thank you for sharing!
By Laura Polasek on January 2, 2024 at 1:46 pm
Thank you, Julie! I was working on a draft this morning and feeling discouraged. Your words, and your archeologist metaphor, were just what I needed to hear today. A wonderful gift to help me on my journey to get some of my stories out into the world.
By sarahdakin on January 2, 2024 at 1:50 pm
Thank you for some perspective on a “long time” for a book to be published.
By Emily Starr on January 2, 2024 at 1:51 pm
I have been struggling with this idea of giving my story time, but have been forced to due to back pain. At first it was extremely frustrating. I wanted to be writing. I had a whole outline complete, but I think I knew deep down something wasn’t right with the storyline. I’ve been chipping at it when I’m able and reading A LOT and trying very hard to be patient with myself, with my writing, and with my story. I kept seeing follow writers that were in classes with me getting agents or winning contests or scholarships and I felt like I was being left behind. Thanks for this. It was the bigger reminder that I need to remember all stories come out at their own pace and I just need to be patient and go with it.
By jpeters6248 on January 2, 2024 at 1:52 pm
thanks for sharing Julie!
By Alicia Meyers on January 2, 2024 at 1:54 pm
I have a story that’s in the “years” category for how long it’s been swirling around me and inspiring me to research and explore before I dig it up and dust it off. Almost all the stories that I’ve written through the years have been part of that chipping away and experimentation. Thank you for your words of encouragement!
By Deborah Ishii on January 2, 2024 at 1:55 pm
I love that your story “rested” and is now being published. We generally hear of the publishing wonders who write/edit/publish in a matter of weeks and your article gives me more hope in my own process. I suppose it helps that you were already under contract… I look forward to reading “Help Wanted///One Rooster”
By The Academy on January 2, 2024 at 1:56 pm
Thank you for this validation. I’m curious, was there no deadline in the contract? In my experience as an illustrator, deadlines are deadlines, with very little wiggle room.
By kategarchinskybooks on January 2, 2024 at 1:58 pm
Yes, it takes the time it takes. Sticking with it is what matters. Thanks, Julie!
By kamalani3f6abc9834c on January 2, 2024 at 1:59 pm
Thank you so much for sharing, Julie! This post gives me hope!
By brennajeanneret on January 2, 2024 at 1:59 pm
Thanks for motivation to not give up on ideas.
By christineg3 on January 2, 2024 at 2:00 pm
I love the idea of reveling in the magic of ideas! They really are everywhere. I definitely have some stories that have been marinating for a long time. Maybe this will be the year!
By Jennifer on January 2, 2024 at 2:02 pm
Thank you for sharing this book’s journey, Julie. It’s so important to remember that every book takes the time it needs to be its best, like people! We and our books are on unique journeys. Congratulations on this upcoming publication. Help Wanted: One Rooster sounds like a lot of fun! 🙂
By Michelle on January 2, 2024 at 2:03 pm
Love the process here! 12 years! geesh— but it’s great that you were able to keep tinkering away with it, until now it’s fully realized. I love that. A story that just wouldn’t quit. Kind of like writing in general- requiring lots of perseverance.
By Bridgitte Rodguez on January 2, 2024 at 2:06 pm
Gives me hope for some of my “ buried” long ago stories. Thank you.
By Linda Sakai on January 2, 2024 at 2:06 pm
They say patience is a virtue. For writers it is a necessary evil.
By Stephen S. Martin on January 2, 2024 at 2:07 pm
I agree that every manuscript has its own timeline. Good luck with your newest book!
By gregoryfulgione on January 2, 2024 at 2:07 pm
Thanks for the reminder that every book takes time and that it is not a bad thing.
By Jessica Coupé on January 2, 2024 at 2:08 pm
Thank you for sharing this much needed reminder that a story will not present itself fully on our timeline but its own.
By helenlysicatos on January 2, 2024 at 2:11 pm
Thank Julie! Love your process, advice and books.
By elizabethwilcoxsaba on January 2, 2024 at 2:11 pm
Such a great reminder! It takes as long as it takes.
By Katie Reinert on January 2, 2024 at 2:12 pm
Thanks for your reminder about the importance of time and story digestion (so true!), and congratulations for succeeding with your book after such perseverance, but I’m confused by your contract date: How did a 2014 book contract, which implies a publisher’s intention to publish a book sooner rather than later, lead to a 2024 publishing date? Is this 10 year time gap common for picture books?
By Poupette on January 2, 2024 at 2:12 pm
No, it’s not common at all! Most picture books take two to three years to publish. Help Wanted: One Rooster got pushed due to another book getting acquired they wanted to publish earlier, lengthy revisions with the other book in the two-book contract (which became my book No Boring Stories), and then multiple editor changes (two editors left).
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 2:42 pm
Your post, Julie, is a good reminder that this business requires us to show up at our desk and to sometimes pull out “old” ideas and turn them into “new” ones!
By Quinette Cook on January 2, 2024 at 2:13 pm
Great reminder that some stories take a long time to fully reveal themselves!
By lindsayrobinson12 on January 2, 2024 at 2:17 pm
A “timely” reminder for us all, Julie! And a good one for me in this moment as I consider notes on a possible revision that might need more time to percolate.
By Audrey on January 2, 2024 at 2:19 pm
Wow, Julie! You were uberpatient. I’m signing up for your newsletter so I can hear more about this writing journey. And Help Wanted: One Rooster is surely on my to-read list. I’m not waiting 10 years.
By Claire A. B. Freeland on January 2, 2024 at 2:20 pm
Thanks for the reminder to be patient at to keep chipping away at manuscripts! Excited to read Help Wanted: One Rooster–I’m sure it’ll be worth the wait.
By Allison Strick on January 2, 2024 at 2:26 pm
I needed to read this; obsessive email checker here! Thanks for the reminders!
By kellyclasenwriter on January 2, 2024 at 2:26 pm
Thank you, Julie, for reminding us to be patient on our writing journeys. Grateful for your story.
By Mary Beth Rice on January 2, 2024 at 2:27 pm
I wish I had read your post a long time ago…I would have had more patience with the writing process. Loved reading about your journey.
By Sylvia Mary Grech on January 2, 2024 at 2:29 pm
Time is a funny thing. Many people do not realize how long it can take to publish a picture book, but 12 years, ouch!
I too ran into an issue like that, having a book orphaned and landing in limbo. Thankfully I didn’t have to wait as long as you.
I like the idea of a persistent idea. No idea is too dumb or too small. Give it time and it may surprise you!
By Matthew Lasley on January 2, 2024 at 2:33 pm
Things of value always seem to take more time than we think they need! Thank you for this insightful post
By WriterTammy on January 2, 2024 at 2:35 pm
Wow! That is a really long time for a book to publish after signing the contract.
By Ashley Sierra (@AshleySierra06) on January 2, 2024 at 2:36 pm
Thanks for the permission to take my time writing and revising. I have manuscripts that are 9 years old that I haven’t given up on yet.
By Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator on January 2, 2024 at 2:36 pm
Thank you, Julie! I’m looking forward to reading HELP WANTED: ONE ROOSTER this spring. Take your time is the most encouraging suggestion. If a picture book takes time it needs time. Great prize for our lucky winner!
By marty on January 2, 2024 at 2:39 pm
Waiting is the hardest
By Valerie on January 2, 2024 at 2:40 pm
Thank you for your advice. My mom always said that patience is a virtue!
By Angela Lebovic on January 2, 2024 at 2:41 pm
This is such a great line (and so true): “It’s like stories are artifacts we’re unburying.” My debut came out in 2021 and since then I feel like I’ve been swimming in “no.” Hoping to keep unburying some gems this year …
By juliablyon on January 2, 2024 at 2:42 pm
What an encouraging reminder, Julie! I’m learning firsthand how long it can take to move from contract to publication, and it’s hard not to get bummed out sometimes about how slow this industry moves. But, I have to remind myself that the best way to move forward is to keep writing (and revising!)
By calliebdean on January 2, 2024 at 2:43 pm
Thank you, Julie! Very helpful..guess I’ll have to learn to be patient…
By chris469a7acc91 on January 2, 2024 at 2:48 pm
Wow! Thanks for sharing your publication timeline. It’s always great to get a peek behind the curtain.
By Megan McNamara on January 2, 2024 at 2:48 pm
Writing does take patience!
By Pam Jones-Nill on January 2, 2024 at 2:49 pm
Some ideas take time to marinate!
By Meredith E on January 2, 2024 at 2:50 pm
Thank you for sharing this perspective.
By teffland on January 2, 2024 at 2:50 pm
You are so right about the time frame. Most people don’t realize how long things can take.
By Bettie Boswell on January 2, 2024 at 2:52 pm
I love your “future-tripping”!
Thanks for the reminder that it’s good to step away from drafts for a time, and come back to see revisions with fresh eyes.
By sarapetersohn on January 2, 2024 at 2:52 pm
Nice reminder that even those stories that are in the ‘terrible old drafts’ box can bounce back with new life given time.
By mwinikates on January 2, 2024 at 2:54 pm
Thanks for reminding us that most stories need to stew before they pop with flavor!
By Andria Rosenbaum on January 2, 2024 at 2:54 pm
I enjoyed reading about your writing process! Thanks for sharing!
By Cathy Stefanec Ogren on January 2, 2024 at 2:55 pm
That is a tale of a story journey Julie! Thanks for your generous sharing – just thinking about it started some story ideas for me!
By Stephanie D Jones on January 2, 2024 at 2:56 pm
Hard line to read, but oh so true ~ There is truly no rush. Thanks for sharing your journey for Help Wanted: One Rooster. I put in a library purchase request as kids will love this book!
By jumpbaby on January 2, 2024 at 2:58 pm
It is so comforting to us pre-published authors to hear the tales of successful ones who have taken years to publish a book. It gives me the confidence to not give up and to know that if God wants it to be published, it will happen in His time, not mine.
By NettieBug Melson on January 2, 2024 at 2:59 pm
You really can’t rush the process. It takes as long as it takes. Thanks for the reminder, Julie!
By writerdoreenrobinson on January 2, 2024 at 3:02 pm
Thanks for the encouragement. Keep hoping and keep working.
By RD on January 2, 2024 at 3:03 pm
I really appreciate the real life example of how long it can take.
By hamblinkris on January 2, 2024 at 3:03 pm
Julie, I love “future-tripping” (so relatable!) and referring to stories as artifacts to be unburied and dusted off. Your post is a great reminder about patience and letting the story simmer. Thank you!
By Alison McGauley on January 2, 2024 at 3:03 pm
Sometimes stories, like seeds, germinate best in the dark.
By Laura F. Nielsen on January 2, 2024 at 3:05 pm
Great points about timing!
By Naja Lund Aparico on January 2, 2024 at 3:09 pm
I enjoyed reading about your writing process. A good book takes time to write.
By Cathy Stefanec Ogren on January 2, 2024 at 3:10 pm
Thanks for your wisdom and the golden reminder of time. Congrats on the upcoming release! Whooo-hoo!
By Sara Weingartner on January 2, 2024 at 3:10 pm
This is so encouraging. After a 4 year writing streak, I haven’t had a new idea since last May. Thank you for the inspiration, Julie!
By blairmoorebooks on January 2, 2024 at 3:10 pm
I can’t wait to read it. Sounds hilarious. Thanks for sharing.
By Gayle Veitenheimer on January 2, 2024 at 3:12 pm
I can definitely relate. My first picture book, writing and illustrating, intermittently, took fifteen years before it was published.
By elphbatt on January 2, 2024 at 3:13 pm
Persistence and patience pay off. Thanks for sharing your experiences. Congratulations on your book deal!
By 1marth1 on January 2, 2024 at 3:14 pm
Couldn’t agree more! Thanks for sharing your story! And congratulations!!
By Aimee on January 2, 2024 at 3:17 pm
Thank you for your encouragement of consistent work and patience. Congrats on your new book. I love rooster stories!!
By Annette Martin on January 2, 2024 at 3:20 pm
Love it! The power of manifesting your dreams is very real. Looking forward to reading about your roosters, Julie. Sounds hilarious
By nicolesalterbraun on January 2, 2024 at 3:23 pm
I appreciate your encouragement as I enter year 6 (or 7) of my “soon to be on Oprah” story. THANK YOU!
And Go Roosters!
By Alicia Shawn Gagnon on January 2, 2024 at 3:26 pm
PB writing does take a ton of patience. Congrats on your newest book!
By dinatowbinconsulting on January 2, 2024 at 3:27 pm
As a former archaeologist, your artifact metaphor was a bullseye for me, Julie. A wonderful way to think about the core/heart/truth of a story.
By Jen Breach on January 2, 2024 at 3:27 pm
I love the idea of future-tripping. I’ve also heard that called telescoping. I have definitely done that with my books and my desire to one day give a TEDTalk! Great article!
By Cindi Goodeaux on January 2, 2024 at 3:33 pm
Thank you, thank you, Julie! You sharing your journey is very useful. I know that the process from pen to publication can be so looooong. Patience is important – but not always easy!
By robin jordan on January 2, 2024 at 3:35 pm
haven’t sold my “12 year” PB yet but I definitely have on! 🙂 Also the future tripping… I feel called out.
By sarahsteinberg on January 2, 2024 at 3:35 pm
Waiting is so hard! Thank you for sharing your experience and motivation
By valerieschultz023gmailcom on January 2, 2024 at 3:37 pm
Your future-tripping, aka dreaming, cracked me up. I especially loved the bit about the awards. Thanks, Julie!
By goodreadswithronna on January 2, 2024 at 3:38 pm
Wow that timeline gives some old manuscripts real hope! Congrats on keeping with it!
By jenfierjasinski on January 2, 2024 at 3:39 pm
Haha no writing or illustrating journey would be complete without future-tripping! Who among us has not practiced their imaginary awards acceptance speeches in the shower? 😉
By emmelineforrestal on January 2, 2024 at 3:39 pm
Time and Patience are words that my writer heart understand but that my anxious brain doesn’t…thank you for the eloquent reminder that writing isn’t just a checklist but a work of art that comes from our souls and it takes the time that it takes!
By cbleewriting on January 2, 2024 at 3:40 pm
Yes! I needed this. I have many stories that are taking their own sweet time in revealing their true and full form! And that’s okay!
By Traci VW on January 2, 2024 at 3:44 pm
I love this advice and can’t wait to read your upcoming picture book! Thank you!
By jenabenton on January 2, 2024 at 3:48 pm
It takes the time it takes!
By Lisa L Furness on January 2, 2024 at 3:49 pm
Such an amazing perspective and you’re truly an inspiration! Thank you for giving us all the motivation to not give up, and keep going.
By effiekoliopoulos on January 2, 2024 at 3:52 pm
This is a timely reminder. Creativity can’t be rushed. Congratulations on you upcoming book birthday.🥳
By carolynleillustrations on January 2, 2024 at 3:58 pm
Great reminder, as I often put pressure on myself to speed up my revisions. I’m learning that letting my drafts simmer can be greatly beneficial!
By Lisa P. on January 2, 2024 at 4:01 pm
Wow, Julie~this helps me see persistence and belief in your story win out!
By Becki Kidd on January 2, 2024 at 4:03 pm
Great advice!
By Stefanie Hohl on January 2, 2024 at 4:03 pm
You’re right Julie, some stories just sit in the drawer for years but somehow they seem to nag at you, saying you can do better than this. You’ve got a great story here. Just pick me and cut, cut, cut. I’ve been working on a Bot story since 2017. I’ve revised it resently and wow, I’ve changed quite a few things since. It’s a totally new story. Now I’ve sent it to my critique partners. We’ll see what happens. On the other hand some stories seem to flow so well you only need a few tweaks and it’s ready to go.
By eleanorannpeterson on January 2, 2024 at 4:04 pm
I love to revisit old drafts. Some need tons of time to simmer, so you can look a them with fresh eyes.
By maramarakay on January 2, 2024 at 4:09 pm
Julie, I can relate! It took 13 years from first draft to my first published book and 10 years from my first draft for Lila and the Jack-o’-Lantern to its publication in 2013. As you say, some stories are faster to excavate, others take longer. It takes wisdom to know how much each one needs and to trust the journey. Look forward to your new book!
By Nancy Churnin on January 2, 2024 at 4:09 pm
The part where you said, “It took ten years from the first draft for the story to get fully unburied. I wasn’t working on it nonstop during that time—years would go by when I wouldn’t work on it at all—but it was always simmering, and the full plot of it didn’t really come to me until three years ago” resonated with me. My first pb releases next year. First draft was in 2015.
Your post and the comments encourage me to pull out a few manuscripts that have simmered too long while waiting on a missing ingredient.
By Sally Matheny on January 2, 2024 at 4:11 pm
Congrats! This looks like a fun read – worth the wait!
By streetlynn on January 2, 2024 at 4:11 pm
OMG. That is a LONG time but congratulations. Tinkering with drafts is important but, question, how do you know when to stop?
By kellie906ce70f01 on January 2, 2024 at 4:13 pm
I enjoyed reading Julie’s comments. So often story ideas pop into my head just like she wrote. Maybe it is seeing a couple crows high in a tree fighting. I question what they are arguing about. When she discusses time and the amount of time a project can take is does become concerning. As we get older time is not in our favor.
By Christina on January 2, 2024 at 4:18 pm
This post really resonated with me…I tend to want to rush through and churn out fully formed manuscripts in a matter of weeks. But that rarely works. Appreciate the “permission” to just sit with it for a while and let it evolve 🙂
By Katie Williams on January 2, 2024 at 4:18 pm
Sometimes it’s hard to wait on those projects that I feel are so close! But taking the time they need to fully develop is one of the best pieces of advice I have taken to really get my stories to shine. Congrats on the latest book, Julie!
By heatherstigall on January 2, 2024 at 4:21 pm
Thank you Julie! So encouraging.
By Ruthie Nicklaus on January 2, 2024 at 4:22 pm
BIZARRE!!!! Because last night I was telling my boyfriend over the phone how, when I began writing seriously in 2017, I wanted everything to happen fast, but now, years later (and still only published in magazines), I’ve slowed down and learned to enjoy the ENTIRE process, including the parts that didn’t appeal to me before b/c they weren’t writing (like finding good agent matches).
By Sarah Hetu-Radny on January 2, 2024 at 4:24 pm
Julie, thank you! For me, it does take time and patience for ideas and stories to develop.
By ponder2write on January 2, 2024 at 4:24 pm
I’m currently sitting on a finished manuscript that needs revising, and it’s been years! So I guess I can give myself some grace that it will be unearthed at the right time, hey? lol!
By marcimcadam on January 2, 2024 at 4:25 pm
It is comforting to hear about how long a process from idea to publication can take. Thank you!
By ldodson100 on January 2, 2024 at 4:26 pm
I’ve always wanted to be an archeologist! I need to start digging into my old manuscripts. Janet Smart
By wvsmarties on January 2, 2024 at 4:27 pm
Now this is a master class in patience and persistence! *takes notes*
By abby mumford on January 2, 2024 at 4:28 pm
Thank you so much for the advice Julie, This is really helpful for me as I feel like the story is done and want to send it off to my agent when really I should let it simmer a little longer, it gives me permission to give it time. Can’t wait to read Help Wanted: One Rooster!
By FARIDA ZAMAN on January 2, 2024 at 4:29 pm
Great post! Thanks, Julie! And your new book sounds fun! I’m looking forward to reading it! 🙂
By Sheri Dillard on January 2, 2024 at 4:30 pm
Thanks for sharing how persistence (and a great idea) can win out in the end! You’ve in spired me to take a fresh look at some manuscript that I’ve buried.
By Jane Baskwill on January 2, 2024 at 4:32 pm
The analogy of stories being artifacts waiting to be unburied is so true. I often feel like I am constantly digging for the true emotions I want to convey in my MS. And I am a fan of Snappsy the Alligator.
By Tunisia Williams on January 2, 2024 at 4:34 pm
Such great advice, thank you!
By taracho4 on January 2, 2024 at 4:38 pm
What a marvelous concept for a picture book, interviewing different roosters for the job of roostering! And thank you for this advice of accepting that some books are just going to take a long time.
By Laurie Elmquist on January 2, 2024 at 4:39 pm
I need to hear this over and over. Though my issue is in that last phase of changing commas I also intermittently waver between love and hate for the entire concept itself, so I have to battle myself not to just completely scrap it and start over even if I’ve loved it and worked on it for years! 🤦🏼♀️🤷🏼♀️😅
By Amelia Shearer on January 2, 2024 at 4:41 pm
Ah yes, I feel like that urge to scrap everything is a whole other issue. When that happens to me, it means I need to get up and replenish my creative well with books and movies I love. For me, that desire to toss everything (if it’s a story I’ve worked on for a long time) often comes from comparing myself to others, and it’s a clue to me that I’m spending too much time online. If I think “this stinks!” then I do something analog. If I think “I can do better” then I get out my red pen and get back to work.
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 5:50 pm
Julie, thank you! Writing takes time and patience for ideas and stories to come alive. It certainly is a journey worth taking, though.
By ponder2write on January 2, 2024 at 4:42 pm
This was the post that I needed to read. I’m thankful that you reminded me that TIME is a friend and now I can welcome visiting my manuscripts again with fresh eyes instead of disappointed ones. Thank you, Julie. (And congratulations on your new book!)
By Susan Michele Schade on January 2, 2024 at 4:43 pm
Wow. That is certainly a long waiting time from purchase to publication. Thanks for the reminder that slow and steady win the race!
By Dianna Geers on January 2, 2024 at 4:46 pm
Julie,
Thank you! “Take your time” is just what I needed to hear today. I am adding it to the top of my new year’s goal list. I always start the year with fervor, but I needed this reminder to keep my writing in perspective, to live in the moment, and not to rush the process. I truly appreciate you!
Amy Martinez
By Amy Martinez on January 2, 2024 at 4:46 pm
Oh my goodness Julie, you must be a very patient author! I can imagine how excited you were when you were given a book deal in 2014, but how did you manage your emotion after it took so long to actually make it to print? I love the concept of your story and cannot wait to read it! Thanks for sharing.
By Colleen Owen Murphy on January 2, 2024 at 4:53 pm
And I got the book deal before I had any books out yet, so everything felt so IMAGINARY. But the answer to how I managed my emotions while waiting is the standard one: I wrote more books.
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 5:51 pm
What a whirlwind! But evidently you had the right attitude and product! Way to persevere.
By Colleen Owen Murphy on January 3, 2024 at 8:22 am
Thanks for the reminder to let things unfold as they will. And congrats on your newest PB!
By gabrieledavis247 on January 2, 2024 at 4:55 pm
Congrats on your book! So encouraging to know that it is okay to take time.
By Kate Grimm on January 2, 2024 at 4:56 pm
Congratulations on your new book and your others as well. OK.
PATIENCE. GOT IT.
By Sharalyn Edgeberg on January 2, 2024 at 5:01 pm
I couldn’t help but think of Sam and Dave Dig a Hole when I read this post ;). I love the idea of “pointy/pokey bits” that need to be removed…
By robinswingeditorial on January 2, 2024 at 5:03 pm
Sam and Dave is one of the best picture books of all time, so I’m honored to remind you of it in any way.
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 5:52 pm
This is great! Julie Falatko I identify with everything you said. It takes time, don’t push it forward. Have patience and wait.
By authorjanetparkinsonbryce on January 2, 2024 at 5:07 pm
Thank you so much, Julie, for the inspiration!
By kaziemann on January 2, 2024 at 5:08 pm
I always feel like I’m assembling a giant puzzle. Sometimes, it takes years to find that last puzzle piece, but when you click it into place, you KNOW. Thank you for articulating the experience so well!
By jnorland on January 2, 2024 at 5:09 pm
I love this puzzle / puzzle piece metaphor!
By Julie Falatko on January 2, 2024 at 5:52 pm
I always feel like I’m assembling a giant puzzle. Sometimes, it takes years to find that last puzzle piece, but when you click it into place, you KNOW. Thank you for articulating the experience so well!
By jnorland on January 2, 2024 at 5:09 pm
Great post, I love the artifact analogy!
By Jen Arena on January 2, 2024 at 5:09 pm
Your post and replies in the chat are super encouraging. Nice to hear your approach to drafts and revisions, and how you find success. Never fully throwing anything away. Chipping away, here and there, until the story forms.
By Ben Jeder on January 2, 2024 at 5:09 pm
Thanks for sharing this. It’s a good reminder not to rush, and that well done work is worth the time and the wait! 🙂
By susaninez0905 on January 2, 2024 at 5:17 pm
I love the idea of unearthing our stories.
By prudenan on January 2, 2024 at 5:17 pm
Thanks Julie! I’m at that point too where I see ideas in everyday things and it’s quite magical. Now I need to practice the patience and persistence of taking time and making revisions and I’ll get there!
By Angela Martinelli on January 2, 2024 at 5:18 pm
Such good advice…So, listen: TAKE YOUR TIME. There is truly no rush.
By staceygustafson on January 2, 2024 at 5:24 pm
Such a great post since finding that something in stuff all around us is what we need to awaken to get those 30 story ideas this month. Thanks for sharing your process and how long it really does take sometimes before a book is published.
By Christine Van Zandt, MILKWEED FOR MONARCHS (Beaming Books, 2024) on January 2, 2024 at 5:25 pm
Yes, thanks for the reminder that great ideas are often in plain sight if we pay attention.
By Beth Auman on January 2, 2024 at 5:25 pm
Thanks for your insight into the world of brainstorming, revising, and patience! I’m new-ish to the world of children’s book writing and illustrating, and it’s so helpful to have advice and thoughts like this; it’s a different time-line from so many other careers and life-endeavors, and it’s eye-opening to learn how long things might take, and might need to percolate before they are a “Go”!
By Julie M Kendle on January 2, 2024 at 5:36 pm
This post and the comments are encouraging! Time does reveal those pointy bits that need to be removed.
By Robin M Keeler on January 2, 2024 at 5:37 pm
Just what I needed to hear as I commit to re-imagining the start of a PB draft from last year. Looking forward to reading Help Wanted: One Rooster
By anakellyinla on January 2, 2024 at 5:50 pm
This is so inspiring! I was already used to stories taking years but this gives me hope that some of my older stories might have their day yet. Even that novel I started writing in 2009(!) and still can’t get out of my head…
By Cassy P on January 2, 2024 at 5:51 pm
Thanks for the wise advice!
By Elizabeth Kalasinsky on January 2, 2024 at 5:52 pm
Thanks for the advice. Gives me hope with my stories as well
By Jennifer Lu on January 2, 2024 at 6:00 pm
It’s so true that some stories just take time to fully emerge! The process is never the same from story to story. Thank you for the post.
By Lauren Barbieri on January 2, 2024 at 6:01 pm
This is so interesting. I always knew stories needed time to brew and it was lovely to hear of a real example of this. Thank you, Julie!
By catlady45 on January 2, 2024 at 6:01 pm
Great advice today, thank you!
By chersugarlee on January 2, 2024 at 6:02 pm
Julie, Love this post! Thanks for the fascinating insights into your journey. Looking forward to having your new book on my shelf.
By katecarroll11bf1de55f1c on January 2, 2024 at 6:02 pm
Thanks for the post.
By Gregory E Bray on January 2, 2024 at 6:02 pm
Thank you Julie. That was very inspiring.
By nadiaforrestbooks on January 2, 2024 at 6:06 pm
This post really spoke to me. I have two particular stories that have consistently lived in my heart and in my head and then eventually on paper for years. But they have not gone further than that…yet! It is heartening to hear that this is part of others’ process. Thank you.
By sawyereditorial on January 2, 2024 at 6:07 pm
Love it all. Give it time to simmer!
By Cait on January 2, 2024 at 6:08 pm
Your experience and patience is inspiring. Thanks for sharing and for keeping the faith in your words.
By elise304 on January 2, 2024 at 6:09 pm
Sorry you had to wait so long for your pub date, but congrats, Julie! Thank you for sharing this part of your journey.
By Teresa Rodrigues on January 2, 2024 at 6:14 pm
Thanks for encouraging me to have patience. Your experience proves that it’s worth the wait.
By shirley301 on January 2, 2024 at 6:18 pm
Your experience shows that it’s worth the wait. Thanks.
By shirley301 on January 2, 2024 at 6:20 pm
I love all your books Julie, especially Rick the Rock of Room 214! This new book sounds great too! Thanks for the reminder that some books need to simmer.
By redreadsandwrites on January 2, 2024 at 6:22 pm
Thank you! Don’t tell the others, but Rick the Rock is my favorite of all of mine.
By Julie Falatko on January 3, 2024 at 11:32 am
Moo! Cock-a-doodle-doo! Congrats Julie!
By D. Kim on January 2, 2024 at 6:22 pm
Great advice on practicing patience! Thanks!
By JoLynne Ricker Whalen on January 2, 2024 at 6:29 pm
Such an encouraging post, Julie. Thank you!
By Leslie Santamaria on January 2, 2024 at 6:29 pm
An inspiring post!
By paisleyks on January 2, 2024 at 6:29 pm
I love storystorm!!!
By sallymcclure on January 2, 2024 at 6:34 pm
I have many stories tucked away that might need to be looked at in a different light to see if they should be given a second chance.
By alamarre7571bc92b on January 2, 2024 at 6:36 pm
Picture book publishing is definitely a patience game.
By dviera387d003a90 on January 2, 2024 at 6:40 pm
Thank you for sharing the patience needed when writing!
By Pam Barton on January 2, 2024 at 6:42 pm
It’s reassuring to know that my story, which has been “in the works” for years, still has a chance at life—time and patience are two things I never have enough of.
By Judy Davis Cheek on January 2, 2024 at 6:43 pm
Ugh! 12 years??? I will have to learn patience. But thanks for the post. You did spark an idea for me.
By rosihollinbeck on January 2, 2024 at 6:45 pm
Thank you for this lovely inspiration, Julie!
By Hilary Margitich on January 2, 2024 at 6:45 pm
An excellent sentiment of thought here. Reminds us all that publishing is glacial but it will happen! And also great to remember to keep digging and asking why. 🙂 Thank you!
By Melissa Escobar on January 2, 2024 at 6:46 pm
Great advice to wait and give your stories time, thank you.
Congratulations on the book, it sounds like so much fun!
By jennycaddy on January 2, 2024 at 6:47 pm
Congratulations on your 12 year journey! Sounds like a fun PB–will look for it.
By Buffy Silverman on January 2, 2024 at 6:47 pm
Ha! I also dream of Oprah putting my (future) book on her list! Many thanks for letting me know i’m not crazy 🙂 Myrt 😉
By migratingmoosegmailcom on January 2, 2024 at 6:56 pm
I just love the fact that today I pulled out a ms. I have worked on for years off and on because I feel ready now to work on it with renewed energy. It’s been on my mind of late and I was eager to return to it. Then I read today’s StoryStorm message, and BOOM! I feel validated. Thanks, Julie!
My favorite part of what you had to say–besides all the excellent concrete examples you offered–is this: “It’s like stories are artifacts we’re unburying, and some are fairly clean and close to the surface, and for some you have to dig for miles and clean off a lot of dirt before you even know what you’re looking at.
It’s a magic trick to take your invisible brain thoughts and form them into real words and stories. Of course it takes time.”
Thanks, Julie, for this excellent, well-timed post. 🙂
By judy14051 on January 2, 2024 at 6:57 pm
Twelve years seems like an eternity at my age but Peggy Rowe published her first book at 80 and I’m aways from there yet!
By TonyaAnn Pember on January 2, 2024 at 6:59 pm
My word, what a timeline! That sounds like a fun book, though, and I look forward to reading it!
By jennaejo on January 2, 2024 at 7:01 pm
It’s amazing how some stories come together quickly and others take years and years! I’ve had that happen too and it still surprises me every time!!
By sunflowerscribe on January 2, 2024 at 7:04 pm
Thanks.
By Charlotte Glaze on January 2, 2024 at 7:05 pm
Hi Julie! So many good thoughts unearthed here. Thanks. Congrats and good luck with ROOSTER!
By Judy Y on January 2, 2024 at 7:12 pm
Great advice, thanks!
By rachelgrodsky on January 2, 2024 at 7:13 pm
Sometimes stories are like whiskey, the longer it stays in the barrel, the better story will come out on the other side!
By Santiago Casares on January 2, 2024 at 7:13 pm
I love this advice. Thank you!
By Ali V. (they/them) on January 2, 2024 at 7:17 pm
It’s always a process but, wow, that took a long time. Glad you were given he time to get everything just right. I’m sure HELP WANTED: ONE ROOSTER is a great book am I’m looking forward to reading it
Linda Hofke
By lhofke on January 2, 2024 at 7:17 pm
So excited to get some bonus Julie Falatko in my writing life! 🙂 (Seriously, I LOL’d at “While I do like the writing process, I also really like the part where I send the manuscript out, and it’s no longer my problem.”) I also LOVE the idea that we are unearthing artifacts. In that scenario, I’m definitely the overeager paleontologist who thinks they know what’s coming and is constantly surprised when it turns out to be just a half-eaten archaeopteryx neckbone instead of a perfectly preserved full iguanodon. Thank you for sharing, Julie–you KNOW I’ve already preordered your Rooster book! Happy 2024!
By Elayne on January 2, 2024 at 7:20 pm
Hi Elayne!!! The surprise while unburying is my favorite part, honestly, even if it’s a half-eaten neckbone. That process of writing what I think is one story, but then watching as it turns into something else entire WHILE I’m writing it is always so cool. Also THANK YOU for preordering Rooster!
By Julie Falatko on January 3, 2024 at 11:35 am
❤️❤️
By Elayne on January 3, 2024 at 12:13 pm
Wow, I totally understand. I have a MS that I’ve been working on for almost a year. I’ve had other MSs be written, revised, polished, and off on sub in that time. But this one that’s very dear to me is stuck Time to give it another think.
By sarahsteinbacher24 on January 2, 2024 at 7:21 pm
Loved the story behind the story, even though the waiting was way too long!
(and also, thank you Julie for responding to so many people here, there’s golden nuggets in your responses!)
By Santiago Casares on January 2, 2024 at 7:24 pm
Thanks Santiago! And you know, I don’t really feel like the waiting was too long for this story. I mean, that’s easy to say now that it’s actually publishing in six months (for sure there was a long time where I doubted it would ever be published), but I’m glad it took as long as it did. I like the version that’s coming out in June so much better than the way it was a few years ago, and I’m glad that old version isn’t the one that got published.
By Julie Falatko on January 3, 2024 at 11:37 am
I just love the fact that today I pulled out a ms. I have worked on for years off and on because I feel ready now to work on it with renewed energy. It’s been on my mind of late and I was eager to return to it. Then I read today’s StoryStorm message, and BOOM! I feel validated. Thanks, Julie!
My favorite part of what you had to say–besides all the excellent concrete examples you offered–is this: “It’s like stories are artifacts we’re unburying, and some are fairly clean and close to the surface, and for some you have to dig for miles and clean off a lot of dirt before you even know what you’re looking at.
It’s a magic trick to take your invisible brain thoughts and form them into real words and stories. Of course it takes time.”
Thanks, Julie, for this excellent, well-timed post!
By judybwrites on January 2, 2024 at 7:24 pm
What comforting thoughts you have for writers in process and waiting. Thank you Julie!
By A Brewer on January 2, 2024 at 7:29 pm
Thanks for sharing your story’s journey. It sounds wonderful, Julie!
By pathaap on January 2, 2024 at 7:30 pm
I love the idea of letting the book emerge into the world as it should, in its own time. I look forward to reading your new book.
By kellietheridgeauthor on January 2, 2024 at 7:31 pm
LOVE this line: …some you have to dig for miles and clean off a lot of dirt before you even know what you’re looking at…”
Thanks for the encouraging post, Julie.
~Della
By dellrf on January 2, 2024 at 7:32 pm
Congratulations on being persistent. It’s a good lesson for all of us. Thanks very much for your encouraging post!
By Rona Shirdan on January 2, 2024 at 7:34 pm
Thank you for sharing your process, Julie! It’s what I needed to hear. Help Wanted: One Rooster, sounds adorable! Congratulations!
By Donna Rossman on January 2, 2024 at 7:37 pm
Thanks Julie for the reminder to dig deep and embrace our inner excavator!
By anaarchistories on January 2, 2024 at 7:40 pm
A very enjoyable blog! Patience can’t be taught, it must be learned. Thanks for the reminder.
By Bernadette E. Wallace on January 2, 2024 at 7:45 pm
I can relate to what you have written. Im not alone.
By Steve Heron on January 2, 2024 at 7:55 pm
Julie, what patience and persistence you have! It’s inspiring me to pull out some old manuscripts and see what time has done for these ideas.
By Carrie Tillotson on January 2, 2024 at 7:56 pm
Hi Tara, Could there be a broken link somewhere? I cannot comment or like.
Thanks, Patti Ranson
By ransonpatti on January 2, 2024 at 7:57 pm
Thank, Julie. I’m still waiting………………..! But this is fun and your book sounds like more fun. Would love to win a seat in your picture book revision class.
By mona861 on January 2, 2024 at 7:57 pm
Oooooh, the idea of “story as artifact” appeals both to adult me, and inner-sandbox-child-me. Thank you for articulating this so well! Congratulations on your story coming home to roost!
By emilypgilliam on January 2, 2024 at 8:00 pm
Patience is something I really need to learn
By Sandy on January 2, 2024 at 8:02 pm
Thank you for sharing your story with us. I appreciate it for I have a similar situation with a book coming out hopefully in 2026. Wishing you the best of luck with Help Wanted: One Rooster!
By Jan Milusich on January 2, 2024 at 8:03 pm
Hi, Julie! I’m in Maine, too. Thank you for the reminder that things take time. It’s comforting to know some stories just take longer.
By Sarah Skolfield on January 2, 2024 at 8:04 pm
Are you also wearing an inside hat today? I’m FREEZING.
By Julie Falatko on January 3, 2024 at 11:38 am
Inside hat!! 😀
By Sarah Skolfield on January 3, 2024 at 4:18 pm
This book looks like a hoot! And thanks for reminding us that each project will get done in it’s own time!
By kcrabled7565dd861 on January 2, 2024 at 8:10 pm
This is why writing lots of drafts is a good thing! You can let that sure-fire #1 best seller simmer in your drafts pile and then months later bring it out and cut it to pieces and make it even more #1er…Thanks for sticking with that book-it sounds hilarious and possibly a #1 hit!
By meganewhitaker21 on January 2, 2024 at 8:12 pm
Julie, thank you for a wonderful post. The reminder that sometimes a story takes a very long time to develop is much appreciated.
By nowthattherestime281137688 on January 2, 2024 at 8:12 pm
Thanks Julie, loved your artefact analogy, it is so true. Congratulations on the release of your new book. A cow recruiting a rooster sounds like a hilarious premise. It is shocking that it took so long to get published, but not a surprise that it will be a thousand times better because that perfect ending finally came to you. Can’t wait to check it out 🙂
By Aly Kenna on January 2, 2024 at 8:13 pm
You’re sure right about there being no rush.
By schumerthc on January 2, 2024 at 8:14 pm
Your story is encouraging for those of us with buried manuscripts. I think I’ll dig one out and see if it’s worth revising…again!
By Linda Sakai on January 2, 2024 at 8:17 pm
Thanks Julie. You have reinforced the importance of patience and trusting your instincts. No idea is ‘bad’, it may need time to stew and allow the flavours to fully develop! I love the sound of your new book, having a ‘good’ rooster is vital for farmyard harmony.
By heyhelenmacs on January 2, 2024 at 8:17 pm
Hi Julie. I especially liked how you shared that “there are parts that helped me get the story to where it needs to be, then…some time later, it’s obvious that part can be cut away.” Sometimes it’s a favorite piece of the writing, but it just has to go!
By Jean on January 2, 2024 at 8:19 pm
There is something messed up with the comment section. It does not show the name I choose to post, it shows the 1st half of my email address it says emails were never made public when you fill out the form. It also makes me log into word press and I don’t use word press for anything.
Just FYI’ing
By schumerthc on January 2, 2024 at 8:19 pm
Thanks, Julie, for the inspiration!
By Gail Aherne on January 2, 2024 at 8:24 pm
So true! Thanks for the reminder! Plus I have two ideas jotted down so far for today. Might head out on a walk and dig for some more.
By sharonkdal on January 2, 2024 at 8:29 pm
I so much appreciated your positivity.
By writerdi2020 on January 2, 2024 at 8:31 pm
Love the idea of giving a story the time it needs 😻
By mlyablonaolcom on January 2, 2024 at 8:42 pm
Wow! Can’t read to read the book!
Lynn Baldwin
By Lynn Baldwin on January 2, 2024 at 8:47 pm
Thank you, Julie and Tara! My favorite Peppa Pig episode features road construction that delays the Pig family’s car trip. Supervisor Mr. Bull, when asked about the anticipated length of the delay, tells the Pigs, “It will take as long as it takes.” Sometimes there’s nothing to do but wait. And percolate.
By crbwriter on January 2, 2024 at 8:48 pm
Wow, 10 years. That’s insane how publishing works, but reassuring to hear!
By drawingablank6 on January 2, 2024 at 8:50 pm
It sounds like patience is a necessity in this business. Thanks for sharing your story!
By Bethanny Parker on January 2, 2024 at 8:50 pm
Julie, this sounds so familiar! Thank you for reminding me that I’m not the only one who goes through this. I also came up with two new ideas while reading this! 🙂
By cnparch on January 2, 2024 at 8:59 pm
Thanks, Julie! Revisiting some of my dusty old ideas to see if some sparkle at me 😊
By Charlene Patton on January 2, 2024 at 9:04 pm
Thanks for your advice, Julie. I hope to have some “patience practice” waiting for a manuscript to get published this year. 🙂 Looking forward to your upcoming book.
By michelerietz on January 2, 2024 at 9:06 pm
It’s so reassuring to read your journey. I used to be concerned that I wasn’t prolific enough—not churning out an MS a month like so many of my colleagues. But I’ve learned I’m a more of unearther—the kind of writer who has books buried in them but has to let them come out when they’re ready, not when it’s check-in time or critique group meeting. And I’m ok with that. Like you, I feel fortunate to be the caregiver of these stories preparing them to be seen by the world when they are ready.
By Fern Glazer on January 2, 2024 at 9:11 pm
This is so interesting, because I’ve found that there are definitely times when I need to write more, to remind myself that I can make stories, and then there are other times when I need to go fallow for a bit and just look at the world around me. I prefer to think of myself as productive rather than prolific — working at writing, but not necessarily churning out books. I mean, I do WANT to write a lot of books that get published, but I’m more focused on doing the work and writing the best books I can, and sometimes that means writing a lot but not writing anything that anyone else will ever read.
By Julie Falatko on January 3, 2024 at 11:42 am
I like that thinking, Julie—productive, not prolific. Thank you. Here’s to a productive writing year and hopefully a lot of books that get published!
By Fern Glazer on January 9, 2024 at 10:23 pm
Truly appreciate the encouragement to revisit some of the manuscripts that I loved and left…and to keep massaging the ones that feel special.
Look forward to reading Help Wanted: One Rooster!
By ellenbari on January 2, 2024 at 9:12 pm
Congratulations Julie on your upcoming book release, “Help Wanted: One Rooster” sounds like so much fun (I love quirky character stories). Yay for “all things in their own time”, and for patience! Still, 10 years from contract to release is kinda crazy…here’s to this wacky industry.
By tinefg on January 2, 2024 at 9:14 pm
Thank you for this reminder. I have stories I wrote 4 years ago and wonder if they will ever become in my hand books. I need to take a breath and enjoy the process.
By Krista Legge on January 2, 2024 at 9:15 pm
This was a great read, thank you Julie 😊
By Liz Heron on January 2, 2024 at 9:17 pm
I have a story that I wrote that’s more of a short story, but I really want it to be a picture book. I know it’s too complex to be a picture book and I need to dig deep to uncover its heart. It needs more time.
By Angela Lucille Longo on January 2, 2024 at 9:20 pm
Maybe you can break it into pieces and make it into more than one picture book? But yes, uncover its heart, and then go from there.
By Julie Falatko on January 3, 2024 at 11:43 am
Emmie R Werner
By Bill Werner on January 2, 2024 at 9:25 pm
Great advice and gives me hope, thank you!
By Cathy Mears-Martin on January 2, 2024 at 9:28 pm
I love the analogy of digging for artifacts!
By F G M Kalavritinos on January 2, 2024 at 9:28 pm
Thank you, Julie, for sharing. Patience is a virtue all writers need. Congrats on your upcoming book, Help Wanted: One Rooster.
By authordebradaugherty on January 2, 2024 at 9:30 pm
Appreciate the reminder that there is no rush.
By lacarterbooks on January 2, 2024 at 9:36 pm
Helpful words, Julie. Thank you.
By Jim Chaize on January 2, 2024 at 9:36 pm
Take your time. I love that advice and always go back to the reason I write – for me. Thank you Julie for sharing!
By Betsy on January 2, 2024 at 9:36 pm
Love how you provide a gentle yet truthful summary of ideas and time. Much appreciated!
By cravevsworld on January 2, 2024 at 9:40 pm
I’ll admit that this is the part of writing I struggle with the most!! Great post though!
By jessicafgwrites on January 2, 2024 at 9:44 pm
So a story can lie dormant, like a resting wine…taking a few years to develop its peak flavor… Be patient–but check on it from time to time and you may be surprised at what you find!
By 8catpaws on January 2, 2024 at 9:47 pm
Wow, I really appreciate you sharing just how much time it takes to turn a story into a physical form. I’m truly amazed at the persistence it takes…and inspired. 🙂
By Carren on January 2, 2024 at 9:49 pm
Your post reminds me to slow down and be patient. But it also gives me hope for my stories that I wrote over 10 years ago can still get published, if only I give them another chance.
Thanks for this post!
By Mark Ceilley on January 2, 2024 at 9:51 pm
Congratulations on your new book! What a cute story idea. I admire your patience and perseverance!
By Jenny Boyd on January 2, 2024 at 9:52 pm
I’d love to hear more about this ten-year plus process!
By Laura Hays Hoover on January 2, 2024 at 9:59 pm
The metaphor of stories at artifacts to be unburied is stunning. Thank you, Julie!
By Nic on January 2, 2024 at 10:02 pm
Thanks so much and congratulations Julie. It is good to remember that continuing to work hard for a long time will bring success.
By Marcia D. Williams on January 2, 2024 at 10:05 pm
Thanks for sharing Julie! I admire your patience and persistence. Your story sounds wonderful and I can’t wait to read it!
By Ryann Jones on January 2, 2024 at 10:06 pm
OMG! As a mom to three roosters, I want this book STAT! Thanks for the perspective on the time it takes to get a book right.
By jennd2f16814769 on January 2, 2024 at 10:08 pm
Thank you for the validation that it is okay for my stories to take a long time.
By Nadine Poper on January 2, 2024 at 10:11 pm
As a rooster mom I need this book STAT. I have three who may want to apply for the job. Stories as artifacts that need to be unearthed is a wonderful metaphor which I’ve notated as a reminder to dig slowly, persistently, and patiently.
By jennd2f16814769 on January 2, 2024 at 10:13 pm
Oh, you totally need it! Although I will tell you now that not all of the roosters applying for the job are actually roosters.
By Julie Falatko on January 3, 2024 at 11:44 am
Thank you, Julie, for sharing your story and encouragement. Persistence pays off!
By Marilyn Hilton on January 2, 2024 at 10:16 pm
This is precisely the advice I needed today. Thank you, Julie! And can’t wait to read about your roosters!
By Kristen Indahl on January 2, 2024 at 10:18 pm
This resonates so much with me! Congratulations on your latest (also not so latest) book!
By Monica Acker on January 2, 2024 at 10:19 pm
Julie, I love your comparison of stories as artifacts waiting to be excavated!
By michellehlosardo on January 2, 2024 at 10:23 pm
Wow. That’s a really long interview process. 🙂 Can’t wait to read how it turns out.
By amievc on January 2, 2024 at 10:28 pm
Wonderful advice and encouragement! Thank you for sharing, Julie!
By Steena Hernandez on January 2, 2024 at 10:32 pm
It’s always reassuring to hear another person’s process. I’m really enjoying the idea that stories must be unearthed, thank you for that imagery!
By Mari Richards on January 2, 2024 at 10:33 pm
WOW!! I can’t wait to read your PB! Congratulations!
By robertaa8 on January 2, 2024 at 10:36 pm
Thanks so much for the great advice. It brought to mind a fun technique I’ve used over the years. Often in the past when confronted with a problem I would create a vision board which I found to be helpful. Focusing on and believing in one’s ideas is a win-win for me. I’m going to use your ideas on a vision board and see what happens.
By seahorsecoffeeelektra79018 on January 2, 2024 at 10:38 pm
Wow! Talk about perseverance. Boy, do you give this retired teacher some hope for all the drafts she’s had simmering… Thank you so much for sharing your heart! Cannot wait to read your book! ✨
By Jennifer Mills Barnes on January 2, 2024 at 10:43 pm
Thanks. This was very reassuring. I feel like I’ve been working on several picture book manuscripts for years. Keep on keeping on! Donna
By donnamorkreed on January 2, 2024 at 10:44 pm
I feel much better about taking out my old manuscripts and revising them.
By Joanna Szeto on January 2, 2024 at 10:47 pm
Thanks – I love this. It’s funny how distance can be so helpful, and how parts that seem so important can do the heavy lifting to get you to a place you didn’t realize, and then not be important anymore.
By Cindy Greene on January 2, 2024 at 10:53 pm
I have a calming and lovely image of a good story aging like good cheese into something even better.
By Tarja Helena Nevala on January 2, 2024 at 10:55 pm
I buried a picture book to write a middle grade novel. When I finish, I’m digging it out, examining the places where I got stuck, then plugging myself in my chair for revision.
By rindabeach on January 2, 2024 at 10:57 pm
Thank you, Julie, for sharing this. Impatience is my biggest curse. Knowing that others’ stories can take a good deal of time to craft is very comforting. After all we do want our stories to be their best.
By littleseedsread on January 2, 2024 at 10:57 pm
Truthfully I struggle with impatience too. I trick myself by working on a whole bunch of books at once so that I forget that any of them might be nearing an end point where they might be ready to submit to my agent or an editor.
By Julie Falatko on January 3, 2024 at 11:46 am
I agree that sometimes stories need to sit and simmer. I have a one in particular that is on the back burner — this inspires me to take a look and give it a stir. Love the title and premise for your new book!
By Sue Thoms on January 2, 2024 at 10:59 pm
Holy smokes — thank you for sharing this timeline with us. How eye opening for me! I have had trouble getting others to understand that no I won’t have 5 or 6 picture books published next year and may not even have 1 published for many years. This was such a helpful reminder to pause to appreciate the creation and revision processes because these are where we spend the majority of our time with our book babies. Thank you!
By JF Hall Writes on January 2, 2024 at 11:02 pm
Your rooster story sounds fascinating, I wish we could know more about the interim drafts. I look forward to reading it!
By Gwendolyn Holbrow on January 2, 2024 at 11:15 pm
I’ll be sharing a lot more about the process for this book in my newsletter as it gets closer to publication!
By Julie Falatko on January 3, 2024 at 11:47 am
Stories are artifacts that need unburying, and some are buried deeper than others. Great reminder to live the process! Thanks so much for sharing!
By Julie Barnett on January 2, 2024 at 11:15 pm
Oh my goodness. Thank you for this post Julie. You have given me new inspiration to pull one of my favorite stories (written many, many years ago) out of my “no hope” pile and give it another go. Thanks again!
By jbbower on January 2, 2024 at 11:17 pm
What a long journey—one that I can relate to!
By Marcia Berneger on January 2, 2024 at 11:19 pm
Thank you! It’s so hard to wait! But patience is something that I am learning. I appreciate you letting us see a glimpse into this side of writing for you. It really resonates with me. It also must be so rewarding to finally see it come to fruition.
By lisakdaviswriting on January 2, 2024 at 11:25 pm
Thank you for the reminder how time can make such a difference as a book develops. Congratulations on the publication of Help Wanted: One Rooster.
By claireannette1 on January 2, 2024 at 11:28 pm
Thank you for the encouragement on time! It takes the time it takes. It’s sometimes tempting to rush the revision process, but you shared wise words! Thanks!
By Marci Whitehurst on January 2, 2024 at 11:29 pm
Thanks for the encouragement. I’ve been doing Storystorm for a few years now. I always come out with good ideas. Then move on to stories and then stop. I will be finishing some of them and hopefully more this year. Big Goals!
By gattodesign on January 2, 2024 at 11:33 pm
Wait, I’m really interested in this. Why do you stop working on the stories, do you think? I hope you do finish some this year, and maybe even pull out some ideas from previous years. But I’m curious why you think you stop working on them.
By Julie Falatko on January 3, 2024 at 11:49 am
It is very true that ideas take time. Stories, ideas, manuscripts need to marinate. We all know that the longer you marinate, the stronger and better the flavor. I’m not saying to marinate forever, but all those creative juices are flowing, seeping in and just making everything better. An idea has to cook, and I truly believe the juicer it will be. The better it will be. The tastier it will be.
By theliah1 on January 2, 2024 at 11:38 pm
Thanks for sharing your own examples and insights, Julie! It was especially good to be reminded that there are parts of our stories that help us get it to where it needs to be, and that may be their only purpose.
By amandashayne on January 2, 2024 at 11:38 pm
Congratulations on Help Wanted: One Rooster! And thank you for giving me hope. It might be time to take another look at a few of my older pb mss.
By Debbie Austin on January 2, 2024 at 11:40 pm
Your revision insight, of a manuscript being ready when “there aren’t any more pointy bits that poke me when I’m reading or thinking about it” will stick with me. I definitely know those pointy bits poking me! Thank you for giving us permission to let a story percolate. And congratulations on HELP WANTED: ONE ROOSTER. I look forward to reading your work.
By Laurie Seaford on January 2, 2024 at 11:50 pm
Encouraging post! That rooster best not retire–it sounds like it would take a long time to replace the candidate who’s chosen.
By Laurel on January 2, 2024 at 11:50 pm
Ha, yeah, seriously.
By Julie Falatko on January 3, 2024 at 11:49 am
I love that you validate the process!! My first bilingual children’s book, published in 2020, I wrote the first draft in 2016. A manuscript I started in 2020 and finished in 2023, after several revisions, and have submitted to a few agents and has been rejected 6 times, still awaits and I am sure it will go through a few more changes! Congratulations on HELP WANTED: ONE ROOSTER!! You give me hope!
By mrbellasgmailcom on January 3, 2024 at 12:03 am
This is such an encouraging post! Thanks for letting us know your process, and congratulations on your book! What a great title!
By Vanessa Hancock on January 3, 2024 at 12:06 am
Love the honesty in this post. I do write down my ideas with starts and thoughts for character and plot arc if it doesn’t just all flow out at once so thank you for the support that many times it takes the longer road to work it all out!
By kimpfenn on January 3, 2024 at 12:07 am
I love that great authors also have books that have been simmering to a boil for years, gives me hope to not fully give up on certain stories I love!
By Kelly A. on January 3, 2024 at 12:10 am
“Stories are artifacts we’re unburying” is so true! Thank you for sharing your process Julie, enlightening and encouraging!
By anahadrian on January 3, 2024 at 12:11 am
Writing sure is a mysterious and fascinating business!
By Karan Greene on January 3, 2024 at 12:12 am
Wow – thanks for this story! I agree we are so lucky to get to dig up ideas and write!
By stacyallen on January 3, 2024 at 12:17 am
Yes, some stories need time.
By Yolimari Garcia on January 3, 2024 at 12:20 am
Over two years ago, I wrote a story that I told my daughter at bedtime to help her fall asleep. This story comes back to me every now and then, but it also reminds me of too many stories I read to my kids, and so I change a word or two, save it and let it be just a draft. I am curious if it will become something more one day. Thank you for this post. We loved The Great Indoors.
By ecastelliauthor on January 3, 2024 at 12:25 am
I appreciate your honesty about the time it takes to publish and get your book into the world. I am sure the quality of the finished book is so high, congratulations!
By Jill Friestad-Tate on January 3, 2024 at 12:31 am
To be clear, it doesn’t usually take this long for books to get published. I might be patient, but I’m not THAT patient. Usually it’s more like three years.
By Julie Falatko on January 3, 2024 at 11:51 am
😆
By Jill Friestad-Tate on January 3, 2024 at 5:25 pm
This is so true and such an important reminder. Thank you and what a cute idea for a PB! Would of course love to take your class
By ConstanceL on January 3, 2024 at 12:31 am
Love this post! Writing takes time and patience! Ideas are everywhere!📝😊
By seschipper on January 3, 2024 at 12:32 am
I love your story idea about the Rooster, it is so funny. Your time frame is exhausting, yet you stuck to it, that is amazing. I hope you get that call from the awards committee.
By percyandcat on January 3, 2024 at 12:38 am
Wow! Publishing really is slow. I love your editing descriptions…when things aren’t sticking you anymore. Sigh…so much to do. Thanks for the reminder about the long game.
By ramonapersaudwrites on January 3, 2024 at 12:41 am
Great advice! I would never have guessed that It could take so long. And I loved your archeology metaphor too-it does feel that way.
By Lauren Hidalgo on January 3, 2024 at 12:43 am
In many instances, time is on your side and things can only get better. Like our manuscripts. Help Wanted: One Rooster sounds like a fun read!
By Jane F. on January 3, 2024 at 12:49 am
Julie, thank you for sharing the publishing journey for HELP WANTED: ONE ROOSTER. In this fast-paced world where we continually feel that time is of the essence, taking our time may be what is needed for our stories.
By marias62 on January 3, 2024 at 1:12 am
I honestly feel like taking my time is the right answer with EVERYthing. When I feel time pressure, I end up doing a bad job, whether it’s writing or talking to someone or sewing or making dinner. And when I slow down and enjoy the process, I do a much better job.
By Julie Falatko on January 3, 2024 at 11:53 am
What an inspiring story! It helps me feel a little less crazy when considering my many half-unearthed manuscripts. haha. Really looking forward to reading Help Wanted: One Rooster. What a great title!
By krystabriellecafdfb2cb9 on January 3, 2024 at 1:16 am
Love reading about the things that come to you after you put the manuscript away. Thank you.
By sheriradovich0384 on January 3, 2024 at 1:18 am
Thanks, Julie, for your many insights, reminders and kernels of wisdom. Your patience and fortitude re. Help Wanted is impressive! Ironically, when I was in 6th grade, I wrote a short story with a similar barnyard plot with a twist re. a crowing position that needed to be filled. I recall being quite proud of it and frustrated because, although I received an “A+,” I never got it back because the teacher said he lost the actual paper. I think back about my “first PB” from time to time. It would be fun to reread it–and perhaps be inspired by it. Looking forward to reading yours–congratulations!
By Lucretia Schafroth on January 3, 2024 at 1:21 am
I love your thought about our stories being like artifacts were digging up. It’s such a brilliant analogy. Thank you, Julie!
By Sandy Perlic on January 3, 2024 at 1:23 am
Thanks so much for this post, Julie. I feel cheered on and reminded to look for ideas in the everyday stuff that rolls by my eyeballs. And to take my time, til it shines. Saving!
By Varda Livney on January 3, 2024 at 1:24 am
Thanks, Julie. Inspiring post. Reminding me to give my stories the time they need and the time I need to hone my craft. Would love to take your class!
By ssjaslove on January 3, 2024 at 1:29 am
Thank you for this powerful reminder! I dig the archeology reference. 🙂
By wyszguy on January 3, 2024 at 1:33 am
Thank you for your post. I think now I need to get out more.
By Rhonda Ooi on January 3, 2024 at 1:48 am
Great post. Ideas take time to develoo substance.
By Roxanne on January 3, 2024 at 1:50 am
Thank you so much for this post! I actually got three ideas from reading your post! And your book looks adorable! I need to read it!
By ashleydbankhead on January 3, 2024 at 1:51 am
Three ideas! Yay!
By Julie Falatko on January 3, 2024 at 11:54 am
There is a comic that is so true to form and fits your suggestion perfectly, except it’s our own perceptions of it; a movie producer says, “Your screenplay is amazing! It’s fresh, original, like nothing else we’ve ever seen before, but we can fix that.” It’ll never be perfect, but close enough might be good too.
By Todd Freer on January 3, 2024 at 2:11 am
What a beautiful question: why are they buried so deep? Thank you for admitting to the future tripping. I think my writing process takes a detour through self loathing first, but yes, I can definitely relate to this. =) Off to do some digging and hoping not to get too frustrated at how muddy I get in the process.
By Maria Johnson on January 3, 2024 at 2:20 am
I have multiple stories I came up with but have been untouched for a while. Some don’t have a good middle, some don’t have an ending… But your accomplishment and patience are encouraging! I will try to go back to my untouched stories hoping that I will publish one of these someday! Thank you for your post!
By Mari Miyagi on January 3, 2024 at 2:29 am
Thanks Julie and congratulations on your book! I love your analogy of stories bring line artifacts we unbury.
By sketched out on January 3, 2024 at 2:31 am
…stories being like artifacts. (Darn typos! 🤪)
By sketched out on January 3, 2024 at 2:33 am
The patience aspect is so true! It goes well with one of my mantras: Enjoy the process:)
By Keeping the Me in Mommy on January 3, 2024 at 2:37 am
Hi Julie! I definitely relate to ‘pokey bits’ in manuscripts. Thanks for the great post!
By Kaye Baillie on January 3, 2024 at 2:49 am
Great way to get ideas started
By rachelcritchleya061056d76 on January 3, 2024 at 2:53 am
Congratulations, Julie! Thank you for the reminder! Your post makes me want to revisit an idea from a previous Story Storm!
By claudine108 on January 3, 2024 at 3:49 am
It takes as long as it takes.
I love that idea. Thanks for sharing!
By krnchun on January 3, 2024 at 3:52 am
Great post! Inspiring.
By mjmuir432bfb4bb4 on January 3, 2024 at 3:56 am
Julie, I love the idea that stories are like artifacts and we are chipping away to discover them. Read in the comments the reason for the 10 years – wowsers. Congrats on uncovering this gem! Looking forward to it’s release. And thanks again for the encouragement – much needed.
By Maria Marshall on January 3, 2024 at 4:27 am
Congratulations, Julie, on your book getting out into the world in June!
I write YA fiction, but for about 18 years I’ve been toying with a picture book idea. Your post inspires me to actually do something with it!
By Just "B" on January 3, 2024 at 4:34 am
Thank you, Julie, for the challenge of writing a picture book without words. I’m looking forward to it. And thanks for sharing more about Passover and about pagination. I look forward to reading Afikomen and your other books.
A trilogy that comes to mind that is wordless is the one written by Aaron Becker’s – Journey, Quest and Return (my grandsons loved telling the story in their words), and also Kadir Nelson’s sparse text book, If You Plant a Seed.
By Jeannette Suhr on January 3, 2024 at 5:01 am
Thank you, Julie, for the reminder of being patient when writing a picture book and not rushing it. And thanks for sharing your experience of writing “Help Wanted: One Rooster”. I look forward to reading it.
By Jeannette Suhr on January 3, 2024 at 5:08 am
Please delete or ignore this comment. It was meant for 12×12 featured author. Aacckk! Guess writing in the early morning is not always a good thing. LOL
By Jeannette Suhr on January 3, 2024 at 5:10 am
Oh no! Don’t delete this one, delete the other comment. LOL. I need to go to bed.
By Jeannette Suhr on January 3, 2024 at 5:12 am
We’ve all been there! Good luck with writing a wordless picture book, also! (Mine tend to be VERY wordy.)
By Julie Falatko on January 3, 2024 at 11:56 am
This is so interesting. My best stories are generally those that I roll around in my mind for a little while and then write a strong first draft.
There are others that are more like wading through treacle and I wonder if they’re worth persevering with. But perhaps there’s life in those old drafts yet!
By HelenAddyman on January 3, 2024 at 5:03 am
Like so many others, the idea of stories as artifacts to uncover really resonated with me. Thanks for sharing your own process and congrats on the upcoming book birthday!
By mbhmaine on January 3, 2024 at 6:32 am
Your book sounds fantastic! Thank you for the wonderful advice!
By Julie Hauswirth on January 3, 2024 at 7:38 am
What great food for thought Julie – why ARE they buried so deep? I love that and agree we are so lucky to be the story idea diggers. Congrats on your PB – I hope you take the time to celebrate tenfold!
By Laura Wippell on January 3, 2024 at 7:49 am
Yes. It’s fun to let stories lie and revisit them later. It’s exciting when you can come up with something new to add or remove some old piece that wasn’t quite doing it.
By williamorser on January 3, 2024 at 8:01 am
This is a great post. Thank you for your suggestions, especially about positive thinking!
By srkckass on January 3, 2024 at 8:18 am
Thank you for showing us your process which is different from everybody and the gift of patience which most writers need. While the ms. is out, work on the next and the next. Sometimes time gives us a better story to form, edit and reform to edit again.
By readmybook2002 on January 3, 2024 at 8:35 am
Thank you for such an encouraging post, Julie! Indeed, stories are so much like artifacts and if we are the archaeologists unearthing these treasures, taking the time to do it right is so worthwhile. Congratulations on the publication of your new book!
By Lindsay Moretti on January 3, 2024 at 8:36 am
Fascinating to have had a ms accepted for publication which did not get published for ten years! Also amazing it didn’t have a solution, I’m assuming it did but got changed along the way.
By Artelle Lenthall on January 3, 2024 at 8:41 am
Yes, there was a solution/ending in the version that got a book deal, but it wasn’t a particularly satisfying one.
By Julie Falatko on January 3, 2024 at 11:58 am
So encouraging. Can’t wait for this long-awaited pb to come out!
By Betsy Devany on January 3, 2024 at 9:01 am
Julie, thanks so much for sharing your story creation process and reminding us that a simmered tale will be ready when all the spices are balanced and in sync!
By Suzanne Lewis on January 3, 2024 at 9:28 am
Great advice, thank you!
By kellyleedoyle on January 3, 2024 at 9:29 am
“It’s a magic trick” — I love that so much. Thank you so much for sharing, Julie! A truly encouraging reminder. 🙂
By Heidi Chupp on January 3, 2024 at 9:53 am
Thank you Julie, here’s to getting a high five from Oprah.
By Claudine Pullen on January 3, 2024 at 9:54 am
Thank you Julie! You’re right – some ideas are just simply deeper down there! I’ve found that to be the case lately.
By jenanyong on January 3, 2024 at 10:02 am
The digging process and the BIG MAGIC moments are fascinating. When I had my BIG MAGIC moment with 10 Ballet Dancers it was wild how the words just flowed on to my page while participating in STORYSTORM in 2019, but I know that my brain had been mining that story for awhile before words ever came out.
By Amanda Malek-Ahmadi on January 3, 2024 at 10:11 am
Thank you, Julie! I love the idea of barnyard interviews. Can’t wait to read it!
By Lisa Tolin on January 3, 2024 at 10:19 am
This gives me hope for my own (re)writing process! Can’t wait to read this book.
By jennycs919 on January 3, 2024 at 10:23 am
I loved what you said: – “Time is what takes a manuscript from good enough to great.” Such a good way to put it. Also future- tripping. Ha!
By Evelyn Day on January 3, 2024 at 10:39 am
Thanks, Julie! Inspiring and refreshing post!
By https://katiewalsh.blog/ on January 3, 2024 at 10:48 am
Congratulations on the new book, and thank you for the comforting reminder that this is not a race and taking time is wise!
By Kaitlin Hedberg on January 3, 2024 at 10:49 am
Thank you for the encouragement!
By M. Fuller-Morris on January 3, 2024 at 10:51 am
Thank you Julie for the post, appreciate the wonderful words to remember. Congrats on your new book!
By rothbe73861 on January 3, 2024 at 11:17 am
Persistence pays off, for sure!
By Doreen Tango Hampton on January 3, 2024 at 11:18 am
Thank you Julie😍
By saintamovin on January 3, 2024 at 11:19 am
Writing ideas and drafts take time. It is great to take breaks.
By amybeth349 on January 3, 2024 at 11:20 am
Yes, time…I wrote my middle grade novel while pregnant and when it came out, my daughter was the right age to read it. Hopefully we’re each blessed with only ONE lengthy process. LOL. I love the title of your upcoming book.
By nrompella on January 3, 2024 at 11:22 am
This gives me hope for some of the stories that currently reside in a drawer. They are just waiting for their time. I recently pulled one from my computer. I had completely forgotten I even wrote it. It gave me such smiles and yet it is not ready for anything more than revisions, and rethinking. Right now, it’s playing on my subconscious. That playful undercurrent makes me very happy.
By sarahpeacetobias on January 3, 2024 at 11:23 am
Time, time and more time. Sometimes (often) it’s frustrating how slow the process can be, but you are so right about revisiting drafts and letting stories sit for a bit. Thanks for the post.
By jrwsantucci on January 3, 2024 at 11:25 am
Thanks for sharing this particular journey and the fact that many story ideas take time and several revisions.
By Teresa Daffern on January 3, 2024 at 11:37 am
This is always such a good reminder. It’s easy to think the slowness is your own fault, instead of a fact of the industry. Thank you!
By jasmithwriter on January 3, 2024 at 11:40 am
Sometimes the slowness is my fault, also! But it’s one of those things where we need to be aware of what we can control. I can control my writing and my stories, but for sure I cannot control publishing or the publishing date.
By Julie Falatko on January 3, 2024 at 12:00 pm
Awesome post!
By Rona Shirdan on January 3, 2024 at 11:40 am
Thank you for sharing this story! And also, I am now very curious to know more about how this publication was delayed for 10 years after signing the contract. I look forward to reading this book, it sounds amazing!
By Viviane Elbee on January 3, 2024 at 11:40 am
Julie, thanks for this insight into your writing process. Great idea with your own free library to share. I have a story as old as yours so I need to get with it.
By diggerdynamo on January 3, 2024 at 11:42 am
Thanks for the advice. A little extra time to mull an idea is sometimes needed.
By L_D_M on January 3, 2024 at 11:55 am
Thanks, Julie. Some of mine have been simmering for a long time. It amuses me sometimes when much later I read an original draft and see how far it needed to come. I’ll keep stirring and simmering until it’s just right.
By Ellie Langford on January 3, 2024 at 11:56 am
Oh wow, I would never have thought you could sit on a story for so long. That really is good news Liesl
By Liesl Couperthwaite on January 3, 2024 at 11:56 am
12 years–that’s a long time. You have a load of persistence and a long memory! Congrats on the book. I’m excited to read it just from the title and the short blurb.
By Darcee A Freier on January 3, 2024 at 11:57 am
It’s always interesting to hear about another writer’s process in creating and developing their book. And you are so right about some manuscripts taking longer than others. Thanks for sharing!
By Kimberly. Storyteller on January 3, 2024 at 12:02 pm
I love the books as artifacts metaphor. Congratulations on Help Wanted. And thanks for the helpful post!
By kskeesling on January 3, 2024 at 12:14 pm
This is spot-on! So many of my manuscripts need time too. It’s nice to know I’m not alone :-). But I wonder–how did the deal get delayed by 10 years? Argh, publishing!
By DrZatHome on January 3, 2024 at 12:15 pm
It’s that age-old publishing story of other books bumping it in the timeline and editors leaving for other imprints, and them me completely rewriting it, plus a global pandemic upending timelines in general.
By Julie Falatko on January 3, 2024 at 12:49 pm
Although the process takes so much time, I do love hearing the success stories. It continues to give me hope for what I’m working on! Thank you, Julie.
By Lori Himmel on January 3, 2024 at 12:32 pm
Going a long time without working on a story always makes me feel guilty, but you’ve made me realize they sometimes need that extra time. Thank you!
By Susanne Whitehouse on January 3, 2024 at 12:37 pm
Wow, Julie! I love the time and patience you (and your publisher) allowed for bringing Rooster where it needed to be. It is fascinating how some books pour out whereas others require a lot of mining. Just thinking about how much my brain changed in 10 years and how it could inform each book differently along the way. Mind-boggling!
By Aimee Satterlee on January 3, 2024 at 12:45 pm
Love your comment that “Time is what takes a MS from good to great.” I dug out a few old ones to breath new life into them. Thanks!
By Leslie Degnan on January 3, 2024 at 12:54 pm
This is a lovely reminder for all of us to have patience. Thank you! And congratulations on your book, it looks amazing!
By Claudia Sloan on January 3, 2024 at 1:05 pm
Love this idea. Going to take some time to review all my rough MS again that just don’t seem to work.
By swollis on January 3, 2024 at 1:21 pm
Julie, I love this so much! “Stories are artifacts we’re unburying.” OMG, so true and so helpful. Every sentence of this post had me nodding and agreeing. Can’t wait to read HELP WANTED: ONE ROOSTER. Congrats on its publication and a huge thank you for sharing all these writing truisms with us!
By marty bellis on January 3, 2024 at 1:27 pm
I love this! Good advice. It’s a relief, really, to know that there’s no rush, and to give stories time to develop.
By amberleawilliams on January 3, 2024 at 1:31 pm
It’s so comforting to hear stories like yours about how many revisions you went through and how long it all took. It reminds me not to give up on ideas and that it doesn’t mean I’m “slow” it’s means I’m in good company. 🙂 Congrats!
By Amy Fellner Dominy on January 3, 2024 at 1:32 pm
Thanks for the reminder that creativity takes time. I’ve been working on a manuscript for awhile and I’m still not sure it’s ready. I keep thinking I’m procrastinating but maybe I’m just letting it percolate. Right?
By juliannahelt on January 3, 2024 at 1:36 pm
Thank you for the reminder that picture books take time!
By Pam Barton on January 3, 2024 at 2:00 pm
I loved reading about your process and I’m going to emulate it. Thank you
By Cindy Montoya on January 3, 2024 at 2:01 pm
Julie! I love this SO MUCH! Thanks for sharing this reminder that writing is creative, it’s a process, it’s mining and refining. Amazing!
By heathercmorris on January 3, 2024 at 2:19 pm
This is true not only of picture books, but all books.
By Cheryl Kula on January 3, 2024 at 2:41 pm
Julie, thank you for sharing your process! I love where you say “…stories are artifacts we’re unburying…” When I think about it, it’s SO true. Thanks again!
By Srividhya Venkat on January 3, 2024 at 2:49 pm
Thanks for sharing your journey, Julie! I love when you say some stories “simmer”, such a great reminder not all stories are ready in the same way/process.
By nikkibergstresser on January 3, 2024 at 2:54 pm
For all the reasons you mention here, it’s also good to remember that our old, unpublished stories aren’t dead. It’s good to pull out unsold manuscripts and look at them in a new light. The world has changed and so have we. Unearth them and see what they are now. Thank you, Julie!
By michellehoutsauthor on January 3, 2024 at 3:05 pm
Thanks for the inspiration, Julie.
By Margie Markarian on January 3, 2024 at 3:10 pm
I can’t wait until day I can send my book off!!!!!! I get ideas several times a day…most of them jostle around my head until I realize how lame they are!! HAHA
By CE King on January 3, 2024 at 3:18 pm
I loved reading about your process! Congratulations on so many awesome books!
By allyenz on January 3, 2024 at 3:25 pm
Thanks for the important reminder and encouragement! Can’t wait to read about Rooster!
By Penelope McNally on January 3, 2024 at 3:34 pm
Thank you, Julie! I really appreciate the reminder that some stories take longer than others. That was just what I needed to hear today!
By Amy Grover on January 3, 2024 at 3:45 pm
Nothing is fast in the publishing world…
By vivianvandevelde on January 3, 2024 at 3:54 pm
Thanks for all the inspiration and tips Lisa! Lots of great ideas flowing from this post!
By cherylmsimon on January 3, 2024 at 4:10 pm
I can absolutely relate to all of this. 🙂
By Melanie Ellsworth on January 3, 2024 at 4:12 pm
I cleaned up my office and discovered a shelf full of old manuscripts, my goal this year is to rework, revise and resend a few of my favorites.
By Louann Mattes Brown on January 3, 2024 at 4:17 pm
I am so impressed with your patience and grit! Congratulations!
By Allison Green on January 3, 2024 at 4:19 pm
Started a list of fabulous words in my Storystorm notebook!
By peasecja on January 3, 2024 at 4:57 pm
Great advice to let things marinate and see what emerges over time, Julie. Thank you!
By Christine Letizia on January 3, 2024 at 5:00 pm
I have ideas that have been simmering for YEARS! Great to know I’m not the only one. Thank you for your insight!
By dashofjoyblog on January 3, 2024 at 5:05 pm
I agree that sometimes ideas require extra time to gather the needed ingredients and then more time to simmer in the mingled juices before the magic appears. Thank you for you “wanted help.”
By Judith Snyder on January 3, 2024 at 5:10 pm
I could surely use a revision class! I’ve had a story simmering since about 2010 or 2011 – in fits and starts over the years –
I know not to give up….still…… Thank you:)
By Judith W Aplin on January 3, 2024 at 5:13 pm
Your post is an encouraging one to stay the course and continue to revise as much as necessary. Thanks for the reminder that publishing is indeed, a slow burn!
By Michelle S Kennedy on January 3, 2024 at 5:16 pm
I really appreciate this encouragement on time, often I feel so rushed and this is so wonderful to know!
By shadikafi on January 3, 2024 at 5:26 pm
In it for the long haul…12 years hauling:)
By ransonpatti on January 3, 2024 at 5:32 pm
This is why writing lots of drafts is a good thing! You can let that sure-fire #1 best seller simmer in your drafts pile and then months later bring it out and cut it to pieces and make it even more #1er…Thanks for sticking with that book-it sounds hilarious and possibly a #1 hit!
By Megan Whitaker on January 3, 2024 at 5:42 pm
Thanks for the perspective. It can be hard to give a story the space it needs to develop.
By swwriter1 on January 3, 2024 at 5:55 pm
Thanks for the tip!
By Ashley Sierra (@AshleySierra06) on January 3, 2024 at 6:08 pm
Thanks for sharing Julie! Congrats on your picture book!!
By Sheri Delgado Preston on January 3, 2024 at 6:22 pm
Thanks Julie! What an encouraging post.
By marywarthb7d7d76650 on January 3, 2024 at 6:43 pm
It’s so hard not to say good enough, just to cross something off the list. Thanks for the reminder to let the story have as much time as it needs.
By TL Fales on January 3, 2024 at 6:44 pm
So so true! Some drafts just need a little space, and some are put in TIME OUT!
By Noelle McBride on January 3, 2024 at 6:55 pm
Thanks Julie! I love the analogy to artifacts.
By marywarthb7d7d76650 on January 3, 2024 at 7:03 pm
Rain. I’d like to think more about how walking in the rain impacts on my characters.
By valclarkauthor on January 3, 2024 at 7:03 pm
Wow! Patience and perseverance at its best. Congrats!!
By kristarantino on January 3, 2024 at 7:13 pm
12 years – aargh, do I have that kind of patience? I am very impressed by yours! Thanks for the encouragement.
By loricevans on January 3, 2024 at 7:34 pm
A great, motivating post! Love the analogy of book ideas to uncovering artifacts. Also envisioning the book’s future. Thank you!
By Bronte Colbert on January 3, 2024 at 7:53 pm
Thank you Julie for sharing yours’ book journey. Patience. Commitment.
By riverwoods21 on January 3, 2024 at 7:59 pm
Thank you for sharing your story. I never realized how long it would take to get a book published until I started this journey.
By Bedwards on January 3, 2024 at 8:15 pm
You are very patient! I have one year left in a 5 year wait and it seems so long. 10 years! I’m so glad your wait is about over. Congratulations!
By christinashawnbooks on January 3, 2024 at 8:46 pm
Thanks for reminding us to be patient!
By Janet Halfmann on January 3, 2024 at 8:52 pm
Thanks for the reminder that rushing things doesn’t make them better and that taking time to review, revise, repeat can often be a winning combination.
By kkgchoco on January 3, 2024 at 10:10 pm
Thanks for your wisdom and insights. I often rush into editing, and over-revise (if that’s such a thing) too early. After reading this post, I revisited a story I’d written and revised in 2020, and realised I’d prefer to make changes to the original version than work with the updated one. Thanks for the encouragement to be patient. The right story will eventually reveal itself.
By sdscottwritere2ea7c1ce4 on January 3, 2024 at 10:50 pm
Thanks Julie! This takes the time pressure off for me, appreciate your insights.
By cherylmsimon on January 3, 2024 at 10:59 pm
12 years! Wow. It is hard that it is a marathon and not a sprint. Thanks for reminding us to be patient.
By Elle on January 3, 2024 at 11:35 pm
Thank you for your wisdom and helping me to see the big picture, Julie! We are in this for the long haul. I’ve been behaving like this is a race to the finish. Yikes! Congratulations on your upcoming book! I love your books!
By lzgodfrey on January 3, 2024 at 11:54 pm
Thanks Julie – I loved your analogy to buried artifacts, that feels so true for stories I have worked years on, polishing and polishing and discovering the true essence is a bit bewildering at times, and fascinating other times!
By karamarsee8716 on January 4, 2024 at 12:02 am
I am having a hard time wrapping my head around a ten year wait after making a book deal. But I guess the lesson is persist and make sure it is just right. Your name will be on it forever! Thanks for sharing!
By ACP on January 4, 2024 at 12:11 am
Time is truly a unique concept in the world of publishing. Thanks for this great post!
By LaurenKerstein on January 4, 2024 at 12:22 am
I love hearing the timelines for published books. It’s always so eye-opening. It’s amazing how some can sell so quickly and others can take years of percolating to be just right
By loriclementwriter on January 4, 2024 at 12:23 am
Thank you for sharing your insights, Julie. Hearing about your patience and persistence is inspiring! And congratulations on your upcoming book!
By picoolet on January 4, 2024 at 12:40 am
Unburying an artifact! I love that image.
By jenniferjschmidte207d3cec9 on January 4, 2024 at 12:59 am
Twelve years! You are fright that publishing moves slowly. I can’t wait to read your new book. Thank you for the encouragement. T
By tanjabauerle on January 4, 2024 at 1:09 am
Love your advice about giving our stories time. I look forward to digging up my manuscripts.
By sharongiltrowauthor on January 4, 2024 at 1:52 am
Thanks for this advice! So excited to hear your book is finally coming out soon. Congrats
By Marzieh Abbas on January 4, 2024 at 2:05 am
It is interesting to have faith in our stories and set them free to evolve and change and have the patience to let it happen.
By Ari on January 4, 2024 at 2:22 am
Makes me feel inspiered
By jcherney3 on January 4, 2024 at 3:07 am
What a journey the rooster book has gone through! 3 editors! And so true about the gift of time. I’ve found that the beauty of working on something else sometimes leads to a new skill or discovery that I can then use to revise the story that was simmering. My kids and I can’t wait to read your new book, we are fans of Snappsy and Rick the rock :). Congratulations!
By MeiLin Chan on January 4, 2024 at 3:47 am
Haha yes, future tripping is the fun part!
By rgrantauthor on January 4, 2024 at 4:45 am
Thank you, Julie. Love the title HELP WANTED: ONE ROOSTER. It drew me right in…
By patriciaalcaro on January 4, 2024 at 5:37 am
Great advice. It’s very reassuring to hear that sometimes your ideas and stories also take a lot of time to get to completion. That is definitely the case for me!
By tinagraham103 on January 4, 2024 at 6:51 am
The “final” story always takes time–I do feel lucky when I get to dig it out and polish it. Thank you!
By brintonculp on January 4, 2024 at 7:55 am
Publishing timelines always put life in perspective lol! Thx for sharing!
By Deena Viviani on January 4, 2024 at 8:45 am
A revision workshop? Yes, please!
By R.J. Fremmer on January 4, 2024 at 9:19 am
Thanks for the reminder to let those stories simmer. Great advice!
By Linda Bozzo on January 4, 2024 at 9:32 am
Hi Julie! Thanks for this post. Do you see the speed of publishing changing at all in the near future?
By Sharon Korzelius on January 4, 2024 at 9:50 am
I don’t see the speed of publishing changing. Publishing is probably due for many other changes, but generally I think the slowness (the regular speed I mean, not the 10 years for my Rooster book speed) is what’s called for. For a book to be thoughtfully edited, designed, and illustrated, plus printed, sent out for review, and bound, 2.5 years seems like a completely reasonable pace. If it was faster, I’m afraid I’d miss things. I don’t want to rush my books.
By Julie Falatko on January 4, 2024 at 10:31 am
Thanks for sharing your creative journey. Big fan of your books!
By Melissa H. Mwai on January 4, 2024 at 9:59 am
I have stories that I wrote when first starting out 15 years ago that I still go back and continue to revise as my writing gets better. There are some that I sit back and say to myself, “That was a really great story, good job!”, but I didn’t put it out there. This year my New Years resolution is to write more, and submit! Thank you Julie for showing us we can still submit those stories we wrote years ago (after some revisions)!
By joanswanson58 on January 4, 2024 at 10:59 am
that’s such a long time! I didn’t realize picture books could take so long once acquired.
By jenngautam on January 4, 2024 at 11:01 am
There are so many things to love about this post! I can totally relate to the relief of sending the manuscript off (not my problem…for now anyways!) and stories that need time to simmer. As a chicken tender (lol) who free ranges my flock, many of my roosters have died fiercely fighting off predators. I can’t wait to read HELP WANTED. In the meantime, can you loan me that cow so he/she can help me vet a new roo?
By hansenjc13 on January 4, 2024 at 11:02 am
Reminded me of Kate DiCamillo’s steps to writing—stop and look at the world around you. Thanks.
By authorhelenholder on January 4, 2024 at 11:10 am
Julie, the time it took for your picture book to debut offered hope. I have a story that won’t let me go, but it has taken years and it still isn’t right. You inspire me to ke-e-e-ep at it. –Kim Peterson
By naturewalkwithgod on January 4, 2024 at 11:20 am
Hey Julie, so much good info in your post! There are just some things – writing children’s books – that can’t be rushed! At my age, I am trying to speed it up a bit😂.
By Katie Schwartz on January 4, 2024 at 12:10 pm
Thanks for sharing your 12 year (!) journey to get this book published. I wrote a new picture book first draft after reading your post. I hope it doesn’t take as long to get published, but I appreciate the wisdom of letting it take all the time it needs.
By michellesteinberg on January 4, 2024 at 12:16 pm
A peek into the road you traveled and the process you have followed is invaluable!
By erozmus on January 4, 2024 at 12:47 pm
Yes, letting things sit can be frustrating, but also helpful.
By Heidi McFadzean on January 4, 2024 at 12:52 pm
I very much enjoyed reading this. Feeling your chill and trust that your story, no matter the time frame, was on the right journey was inspiring.
By Laura N. Clement on January 4, 2024 at 2:05 pm
Thanks for sharing about how a story can be smmering in us and it can’t be rushed. It will come out.
By Yehudit Sarah on January 4, 2024 at 2:23 pm
12 years! Whoa!. Thanks for a great article!
By jlehson on January 4, 2024 at 2:25 pm
Thank you so much for your insight! I chose to dig deeper by really researching the animal I was writing about. I discovered some really fun details!
By Denise Gallagher on January 4, 2024 at 2:29 pm
Yes! This is my way, too–ideas are working even behind our conscious mind, if we let them. It’s refreshing to hear that sometimes, it takes years to get something to the market. Congrats to you! Yay! You are a beacon of patience and of hope!
By karenleewyoming on January 4, 2024 at 2:31 pm
A good reminder to keep the faith. 🙂 Thanks, Julie!
By elisederstine on January 4, 2024 at 2:33 pm
A great reminder that the only way to handle a stubborn story is with patience. Thanks!
By brittanypomales on January 4, 2024 at 3:24 pm
Thank you, Julie! Our stories have their own timelines.
By stefsenn77yahoocom on January 4, 2024 at 3:26 pm
I really appreciate your writing process, which is encouraging.
By nlcardenas on January 4, 2024 at 3:30 pm
Oh man do I feel all of this. I had a story that I kept forcing and forcing to work. It wasn’t until I finally let go and allowed myself freedom away from it that the answer to the whole thing finally came to me in an “aha!” moment. Patience is so important! Those ideas need to simmer!
By Rebecca Gardyn Levington on January 4, 2024 at 3:35 pm
I’m so glad you had that aha moment! Yeah, forcing never really works for me. When I’m forcing it, that’s when I need to go for a walk.
By Julie Falatko on January 5, 2024 at 2:28 pm
It is so encouraging to me as a pre-published author to hear that it sometimes takes years for a book to get published. It helps give me the confidence to continue on.
By Janette Johnson Melson on January 4, 2024 at 4:25 pm
Ok, that’s good, because I think it could just as easily be DIScouraging. But I think there is comfort in the fact that there’s no rush. We have the time to make things great.
By Julie Falatko on January 5, 2024 at 2:28 pm
Agreed!
By Janette Johnson Melson on January 5, 2024 at 3:53 pm
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By janedippoldart on January 4, 2024 at 4:40 pm
Commenting to the email isn’t working for me!
So adding in…Love this post and the idea of “invisible brain thoughts” turning into books! Patience with stories is key also!
By Jane Dippold on January 5, 2024 at 9:36 am
I spend a lot of time future-tripping. I didn’t know there was a word for it, lol. I try to slow my brain down to a more realistic timeline, but still end up rushing myself and my WIP.
By Na'Keysha Taylor on January 4, 2024 at 5:06 pm
I love your approach to writing. You cannot rush the creative process.
By cathyrose54 on January 4, 2024 at 5:21 pm
I love the future-tripping! So true. Still waiting for my Oprah high-five!
By Janel Caverly on January 4, 2024 at 5:21 pm
Congratulations on your new book Julie! I agree some of my very favourite ideas are long brewed in my head!
By Nin on January 4, 2024 at 5:31 pm
Can’t wait to meet all of the candidates for Rooster! Thank you for this very honest and encouraging post. I feel this with so many of my stories and have finally realized that some just need time. Sometimes years.
By Aimee Larke on January 4, 2024 at 5:34 pm
HELP WANTED: ONE ROOSTER sounds hilarious–I can’t wait to read it! Thank you so much for sharing your process, Julie.
By Jolene Ballard Gutiérrez on January 4, 2024 at 5:50 pm
Patience is difficult. I was just telling a friend that maybe I need to look into other ways to sell my artwork because the children’s publishing world hasn’t been easy for me. I’ve illustrated 7 board books and haven’t seen one of them actually published yet. I applaud you for hanging in there and sticking around for the fruits of your labor!!
By Debbie Meyer on January 4, 2024 at 6:09 pm
“…for some you have to dig for miles and clean off a lot of dirt before you even know what you’re looking at.”
#Truth
By Michelle Cusolito on January 4, 2024 at 6:27 pm
Man, this is so true! My first author-illustrated book just flowed out of me and got published so quickly. But all my stories since then have all had to go through a lot bigger struggle. But the are all worth it when they are done.
By sjctenney on January 4, 2024 at 6:30 pm
Wow! Thank you for sharing the journey for Help Wanted: One Rooster and for offering such a great prize. I look forward to reading Help Wanted!
By Sarah Meade on January 4, 2024 at 6:34 pm
YES! It has been fascinating to me how some stories have been simmering for years and I revise, revise, revise and then some come to me nearly fully-formed. The best thing to do is always have multiple picture book manuscripts/ideas in the works!
By Amy Moore on January 4, 2024 at 6:47 pm
Julie, thanks for sharing your evolution of a story from idea to print! You have inspired me not to give up on a story idea that I felt connected to but was just not complete in its message.
By Marlena Leach on January 4, 2024 at 6:59 pm
Thanks! I made a list of 3 “series” ideas I need to go back and re-read. I am making changes on 2 manuscripts I haven’t looked at for several months. I like the application of this day 2. Thanks.
By Patricia Tiffany Morris on January 4, 2024 at 7:37 pm
This is encouraging me to go back and revise some manuscripts. Thank you
By kiwijenny on January 4, 2024 at 7:53 pm
Thank you for helping me to not be so hard on myself when a story takes time-a LONG time! And that it’s okay to just let the story develop on its own without the stress of a self-imposed deadline. I have some stories that have been on the backburner for years and have gone through multiple revisions, and now I feel there’s nothing wrong with that! I look forward to reading “Help Wanted: One Rooster”!
By Dana Atnip on January 4, 2024 at 7:57 pm
Thank you, Julie, for sharing the importance of time when creating picture book stories.
Suzy Leopold
By Prairie Garden Girl on January 4, 2024 at 8:16 pm
I would absolutely love a seat at Julie’s picture book revision class. Thank you Tara and Julie for this wonderful opportunity!
By chelseasworldofbooks on January 4, 2024 at 8:34 pm
Great things take time. Never give up!
By ungracefulwanderer on January 4, 2024 at 9:08 pm
Oh patience….my friend. Hehe.
By kernskristen622 on January 4, 2024 at 10:20 pm
I often forget how much things can change in a story AFTER it gets picked up on a contract. Thanks for sharing!
By Celeste Bocchicchio-Chaudhri on January 4, 2024 at 10:23 pm
Oh gosh, SO MUCH can change! From small things like the title to bigger things like who the narrator is (which is what happened in Help Wanted: One Rooster). My book No Boring Stories had probably 15 completely different plots before we landed on the final one. The finished version of that book is number 82 or something like that. The editing on that book was brutal (and worth it).
By Julie Falatko on January 5, 2024 at 2:30 pm
Thank you Julie for this honest and inspiring post! It just proves that we can never give up, no matter how long something takes. If we believe in it, we have to keep going! I can’t wait to read Help Wanted: One Rooster! I love all your books. Congratulations and thank you for being a great role model for creativity and perseverance!
By laurakbower on January 4, 2024 at 11:40 pm
Congratulations, Julie! The book sounds hilariuos and a fun read aloud! Thanks for sharing your experience, that’s really inspiring. Your persistence is commendable!
By Suhasini Gupta on January 5, 2024 at 2:09 am
Encouraged by your writing journey. Thanks for sharing that sometimes publishing can take awhile and to keep persevering!
By Marie Chan on January 5, 2024 at 2:46 am
Wow, this is a wonderful example of perseverance and patience. Thank you for sharing! Congratulations on your book.
By blackcabbitdce9912ad7 on January 5, 2024 at 3:45 am
Wow, this is a wonderful example of perseverance and patience. Thank you for sharing! Congratulations on your book.
By Dionnie Takahashi on January 5, 2024 at 3:53 am
This post is so inspiring, Julie! Thank you!
By Mary E. Cronin on January 5, 2024 at 6:47 am
Wow, this is so inspiring. Thank you, Lynn
By lynnpesicka on January 5, 2024 at 9:02 am
Congrats, Julie! Thanks for sharing your story and reminding us of the need for patience.
By Christine Fleming McIsaac on January 5, 2024 at 9:36 am
We LOVE Snappsy and 2 Dogs in a trench coat has a constant fan base in our school library! Can’t wait for the “new” title!!
By SandraL on January 5, 2024 at 9:49 am
Thank you for your words of wisdom! You’ve just given me a story idea! I love the cover of this book too!
By clcoate on January 5, 2024 at 9:56 am
Julie, so happy to see you here! Also, originally from Maine! My son loves your series 2 Dogs In a Trench Coat, discovered in Bangor on a visit to Grammie. Thank you for these stories and the joy they’ve provided. Personally, loving the idea of “Future-tripping”… YES! Happy writing!
By hmkingman on January 5, 2024 at 10:00 am
Oh, thank you, I love that! I don’t know if Grammie got Two Dogs at the Briar Patch Bookstore, but they have been great supporters of that book, which is so nice.
By Julie Falatko on January 5, 2024 at 2:31 pm
I love this, Julie ! I’m currently revising a story I wrote about 9 years ago and finding so many ways to tighten it. Looking forward to reading your adorable book.
By donnacangelosi on January 5, 2024 at 11:24 am
The ability to persist is so key. Thank you so much for speaking about this because publishing is freaking hard.
By carlislemalone on January 5, 2024 at 12:05 pm
Julie, you have seriously inspired me for YEARS and especially all through the pandemic. Love hearing how you talk about the task and necessary skills and incredible inspiration surrounding your writing life and your always amazing sense of humor. I was so excited to see you as a guest blogger for #StoryStorm2024! Congrats on the continued success. Couldn’t be more deserving!
By Jennifer B. Wright on January 5, 2024 at 12:11 pm
Also please link the actor from Stranger Things reading “Snapsy the Alligator” it’s life changing. And hilarious.
By Jennifer B. Wright on January 5, 2024 at 12:14 pm
I am ALWAYS happy to link to David Harbour reading Snappsy https://youtu.be/yU8OJWAZmZo?feature=shared
By Julie Falatko on January 5, 2024 at 2:33 pm
THANK YOU for all of these lovely things you just said!
By Julie Falatko on January 5, 2024 at 2:33 pm
Thanks for the insightful post!
By Katie L. Carroll on January 5, 2024 at 12:14 pm
I LOVE this post, Julie! Thank you for sharing! It makes me feel so much better about all those drafts from years ago that are still simmering… Grabbing my shovel to dig a little deeper. 🙂
By Abby Wooldridge on January 5, 2024 at 1:33 pm
There’s a melodic line that has been playing in my mind since we adopted our daughter 10+ years ago. It sounds like I’m not alone in the simmer pot. 🙂
By Barbara Farland on January 5, 2024 at 1:38 pm
Thanks for sharing your insights on perspective, patience and process! Congrats on your upcoming book!🤗📚
By Michael Henriksen on January 5, 2024 at 1:56 pm
Thanks for the reminder that getting a story published takes time. Ten years is a long time but worth the wait I’m sure.
By Lori Williams Writing on January 5, 2024 at 2:22 pm
I love this reminder! Thank you for the encouragement, and the vision of an ongoing writing process.
By KamillaM on January 5, 2024 at 2:30 pm
I love that image of brushing off the dirt before we even know what we’re looking at. I’ve got quite a few of those in my idea book!
By libbydemmon on January 5, 2024 at 3:10 pm
Thanks for sharing!
By Shelley Isaacson on January 5, 2024 at 4:08 pm
Help Wanted: One Rooster looks like so much fun, and learning about the writing process that went into the story makes me want to read it even more. So encouraging! Thank you.
By tracyschuldthelixon on January 5, 2024 at 4:13 pm
Thank you for your story of endurance and dedication! I’m sure it was frustrating for a project to take that long, but reading your success story is very empowering.
By mattsthrockmorton on January 5, 2024 at 4:44 pm
It is so hard to be patient, but gosh this really puts pubishing into perspective! Thanks for sharing your experience, Julie!!
By Andi Chitty on January 5, 2024 at 4:46 pm
It’s so hard to be patient sometimes, but gosh this really puts it into persepective! Thanks so much for sharing your experience, Julie!!
By Andi Chitty on January 5, 2024 at 4:47 pm
Congrats on your newest book coming out. Patience is the key in children’s publishing!
By Judy Sobanski on January 5, 2024 at 4:49 pm
Thank you for the inspiring and insightful post!
By rozanark on January 5, 2024 at 5:25 pm
So many drafts yet to be revised!
By annettepimentel on January 5, 2024 at 6:39 pm
I love the concept, but do you ever feel sad when you have to delete a character? I know it sounds weird, but I feel really sad when they have to be removed. MIchelle
By Michelle Dragalin on January 5, 2024 at 7:03 pm
Well, my answer will tell you a lot about how I am as a writer and a person, but: I thank them for helping me. Even if the character doesn’t make it to the final version, they helped me get it to where it needed to be. And sometimes I wonder if they’ll show up again later. The original version of No Boring Stories had so many more characters, and it was definitely too many characters for a picture book, but I think about the deleted ones sometimes and wonder if they belong in a completely different book.
By Julie Falatko on January 8, 2024 at 1:46 pm
Thanks for this advice, Julie! It’s hard sometimes to make an idea wait until it’s ready, but I think the results are definitely worth it!
By aesauble on January 5, 2024 at 7:35 pm
Great advice!
By Kyle McBride on January 5, 2024 at 7:38 pm
Thank you for sharing! It’s encouraging to know that some stories take longer to get right.
By Charlotte Glaze on January 5, 2024 at 8:55 pm
I enjoyed this blog post SO much. “It’s like stories are artifacts we’re unburying, and some are fairly clean and close to the surface, and for some you have to dig for miles and clean off a lot of dirt before you even know what you’re looking at,” really spoke to me. Thank you for putting the creative process in a clear and unique perspective.
By lorrieoshatz73 on January 5, 2024 at 9:58 pm
Thanks, Julie! Your positive approach to how much time it can take is so refreshing! Congratulations on your new book!
By jenwritespbs on January 5, 2024 at 11:04 pm
It’s so interesting that our sensitivity to the parts that are “poking out” grows as time goes by. It’s hard to figure out where these parts are at first, other than feeling a faint dissatisfaction, and months or years later, we finally know why. So exciting when that occurs!
By Toni Weeks on January 6, 2024 at 1:13 am
What an inspirational post. I have just started… so… Here’s to never give up!
By claudiamarquespb on January 6, 2024 at 3:06 am
Great advice!
By Dionnie Takahashi on January 6, 2024 at 3:08 am
Patience and perseverance are two mainstays of picture book writing. Keep on keeping on.
By Diane McBee on January 6, 2024 at 9:14 am
I really enjoyed your description of “future-tripping”. I just finished reading Steven King’s On Writing, and it reminded me of what he says that there is a period where we must write with the door closed, and that often there is this imagined ideal reader with us as we write. Thanks for the reality check on this process taking time, and the encouragement.
By msaraiva004 on January 6, 2024 at 9:32 am
I love that book! I get something new from it every time I read it (the last time I read it was by listening to the audiobook, which I recommend — it’s great to hear it all in his voice).
By Julie Falatko on January 8, 2024 at 1:47 pm
Julie. Your post is exactly what I needed as I dust the dirt off my own manuscript from 2012. I was questioning my sanity while digging it up again, but after reading your post, I am thinking about all of my work in a different way. Thank you. -Lori Laniewski (LJ)
By ljtouche on January 6, 2024 at 11:41 am
How do you get a book deal and then not publish until years later? I just assumed they would give a deadline for completion. Thanks for sharing your story it gives me encouragement.
By chrisynthia on January 6, 2024 at 12:19 pm
There are deadlines, and there are DEADLINES. Like, a publisher will say, yes, we want this book, and we want it to publish in this year, in this season. But things happen (in this case, editors leaving for different publishing imprints). The deadline kept moving for this book. (Related: I don’t know if I’ve ever had a book come out when it was originally supposed to. It always moves, by days or by months.)
By Julie Falatko on January 8, 2024 at 1:49 pm
Oh, wow! I really hear you! While this doesn’t speak to your publication schedule, I wrote THE PALACE RAT in 1998 and it recently released in August 2023! Patience is a virtue in this business, for sure! Wishing everyone huge helpings of it! Lynne Marie
By Lynne Marie on January 6, 2024 at 12:38 pm
Thank you for this great story of patience and persistence! Congratulations on your success! I definitely need to work on this, I really like to rush! This sounds like a much better way!
By Laura on January 6, 2024 at 1:16 pm
Glad that there is no “shelf life” on a career in children’s literature. Early on, I worried that time was running out but each time I attend a webinar, workshop, or online event like this, I come away hopeful!
By lsmwrites63 on January 6, 2024 at 1:46 pm
Thank you for reminding us that stories take time to emerge and develop! I have a such a tendency toward urgency and often feel that I’m taking too long with my writing, but it really is a process that can’t be rushed.
By Deb McGarvey on January 6, 2024 at 1:51 pm
Thanks, Julie. I appreciate that you shared the need to take the time.
By Nancy Ferguson on January 6, 2024 at 2:16 pm
Great advice and reminder about being patient. I am looking forward to reading your Rooster story!
By Debbi on January 6, 2024 at 2:42 pm
Congrats on your new book! I appreciate the post on being patient. I also have manuscripts that I’ve worked on for a long while. It gets discouraging when there is interest, but it just isn’t quite right yet. Thanks for the pep talk.
By debbiemoeller on January 6, 2024 at 2:42 pm
It’s so true. I love a good checklist, and sometimes the hardest thing about publishing is the waiting, but that doesn’t mean the creative train stops!
By Olivia Fisher on January 6, 2024 at 3:11 pm
Needed this today! Thanks!
By Apryl Lee on January 6, 2024 at 4:02 pm
This is so helpful! Hearing that the time it takes is the time it takes is a comfort and a reminder not to make yourself anxious by wishing for speed.
Many thanks, Barbara Carney-Coston
>
By Barbara Coston on January 6, 2024 at 4:59 pm
Congratulations on HELP WANTED!
Love your advice: “TAKE YOUR TIME. There is truly no rush.”
I can second that. My first picture book comes out next year, almost eight years after signing the contract. But I think it’ll be all the better for it.
By suzannepoulterharris on January 6, 2024 at 7:29 pm
Sometimes I get scared to take my time. I feel the constant pressure to get it done! Work harder! And then my anxiety goes into overdrive. Taking deep breaths…
By signeddiane on January 6, 2024 at 8:29 pm
There really is no rush! If you keep at it, the books will get done when they are supposed to.
By Julie Falatko on January 8, 2024 at 1:51 pm
Aw, thank you Julie for reaching out. I like the framing “the books will get done when they’re supposed to.” Trust!
Best, Diane
>
By signeddiane on January 8, 2024 at 9:51 pm
Thanks for the reminder that each story is on its own timeline! And I love the idea of cow as hiring manager for the farm!
By Melanie Lucero on January 6, 2024 at 8:42 pm
Ok, I really needed to hear this. It takes time even if I have been working on the draft for six years. Thanks so much!
By Lily LaMotte on January 6, 2024 at 10:28 pm
Thanks for the great post, Julie! I’m so glad this story finally made it’s way into the world. I can’t wait to read it!
By vgraboski61gmailcom on January 6, 2024 at 11:13 pm
What a fascinating timeline for Help Wanted: One Rooster! It sounds like your book will be well worth the wait. Congratulations on digging out the story it really wanted to be.
By Joannie Duris on January 7, 2024 at 12:23 am
What a great prize, Julie! Revising can be really hard. I’m glad that ROOSTER is finally making it to publication.
By Janet Frenck Sheets on January 7, 2024 at 1:53 am
Does it seem that good authors are their own worst editing enemy as well as their best advocates? I’m reminded of the cartoon where the movie producer says their script if great, original, like nothing that’s ever been seen before, but they can fix that.” Avoiding that must be difficult and challenging. Or is it once you find your wheelhouse?
By gotoddgo3 on January 7, 2024 at 2:22 am
For me, if I’m writing stories that are exactly my jam, that are the books of my heart, then I can be more open about editorial notes to make them better. It’s when I’ve tried to write something that’s not quite my usual stuff that I’m so much less sure of myself. I’m sure it’s different for everyone, but I’m not my own worst editing enemy at all. I love the revision process and see it as a chance to really make the book great — but I’m also always happy to finish it and send it off. I’m not one to keep it on my desk long past the time when I should have sent it to someone else.
By Julie Falatko on January 8, 2024 at 1:55 pm
Thank you for this post. I just finished my first manuscript and I have been thinking about the idea and working it in my head and on paper over about a 3 year period. I have a lot of ideas but making them into stories has been intimidating after it took me 3 years on my first manuscript. It was nice to read that it takes as much time as it is going to take. Thank you!
By Mandie Speese on January 7, 2024 at 11:53 am
Wisdom comes with time for me quite often as well!
By Carrie Cook on January 7, 2024 at 11:53 am
I have a lot of manuscripts that are “simmering” and revising. One I desperately wanted to publish, but couldn’t find anyone who wanted it, so after 10 years, I self-published it. Thanks for telling us about your journey.
By Barbara Farr Renner on January 7, 2024 at 12:25 pm
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By heidilagrasta on January 7, 2024 at 12:35 pm
Thanks Julie! I always need to hear how long a story can take before it’s published. I’m still working on old ones as I create many new ones.
By Deborah Buschman on January 7, 2024 at 3:14 pm
You have made my day. I always wonder how long it might take and now I don’t have to worry so much!
By Carol Porter on January 7, 2024 at 4:08 pm
I love the writing and revision process, and it is lovely to hear, “It takes as long as it takes.” Sometimes, I feel like I am revising “too long,” but it’s still not right. I just need to take the time it needs. Thanks so much for this post!
By Heather Lee on January 7, 2024 at 4:55 pm
Thank You for sharing a part of your journey and for providing a gentle reminder that … you have to put the work in 🙂
By Debora From on January 7, 2024 at 5:10 pm
Thanks so much for sharing!
By emilysunli on January 7, 2024 at 6:34 pm
It’s so cool how one’s interpretation of a text depends on their current circumstance or setting. As I read your post (with Christmas almost taken down), I thought of the one special ornament that I look forward to opening each year. It’s stored close to the bottom of the bin, surrounded by softer objects, but I always dig for it first. Thank you for your post and inspiring my thoughts on future digs. Btw – My Dad grew up in Maine!
By mnlfam on January 7, 2024 at 7:41 pm
Thanks for a great post, Julie! I love your books and look forward to reading HELP WANTED: ONE ROOSTER! Congratulations!
By Melissa Stoller on January 7, 2024 at 10:28 pm
Julie thanks for the reminder that it takes time for a story to come to life.
By kdgwrites on January 8, 2024 at 1:35 am
Hi Julia, how calm you let me know that it is possible to leave ideas for a while and that they are refined based on our changing interests. I do the same with my papers and now I understand this genius on your part and that time turns on our side.
By Gaby L. on January 8, 2024 at 2:24 am
Congratulations Julie on your book!
Thanks for sharing that stories are artifacts and sometimes digging deep is required to unearth the desired result.
By Naana Amissah on January 8, 2024 at 8:34 am
The book looks fabulous! You’re so right about publishing. It’s so painstakingly slow and battling impatience can be an ongoing challenge. Thanks for the great post!
By melissajmiles1 on January 8, 2024 at 11:42 am
I love this idea of thinking of story ideas as artifacts to be slowly uncovered. Good advice. I off to start digging!
By Lynn M. Mondello on January 8, 2024 at 12:54 pm
I always love your ideas about ideas, Julie – and this post was inspiring! And having a book out that also took 10 years to get fully “unburied” made it resonate all the more. Thanks!
By Megan Litwin on January 8, 2024 at 1:14 pm
Time to pull some oldies out of the drawer! Thanks for inspiration, Julie.
By sunwalker2013 on January 8, 2024 at 1:23 pm
Love your thought process, digging and taking time. Thanks for sharing, Julie!
By suzanbh on January 8, 2024 at 2:38 pm
Love this. Thank you for sharing your process.
By jyillustrates on January 8, 2024 at 2:44 pm
Thank you for sharing your writing process. Love that you kept going and going for years and years, letting things marinate and revising. It reminds me to be patient with myself and publishing.
By MadhuM on January 8, 2024 at 4:37 pm
Sounds hilarious! I’m inspired!
By tamaranealec804ba1b3 on January 8, 2024 at 7:07 pm
Congrats on your story. We can all appreciate the process.
By dianemungovan on January 8, 2024 at 7:45 pm
Permission to take the time – just wow!
By Susan Contreras on January 8, 2024 at 11:46 pm
Time – it can be so frustrating. Thanks for reaffirming that it’s what’s needed.
By chaunceyelephant on January 8, 2024 at 11:50 pm
Congratulations on your book! I must admit, the title made me giggle. Good luck on hiring that one rooster. I’ll see if I can help the cow and sheep out from my side. *snort giggles*
By Cindy E. Owens on January 8, 2024 at 11:58 pm
Thanks for this inspiring post, Julie!
By Mindy Alyse Weiss on January 9, 2024 at 7:36 am
This is really sticking with me. “Time is what takes a manuscript from good enough to great.”
Loved reading this!
Carmen Swick
By Carmen Swick-Author on January 9, 2024 at 2:04 pm
Thank you for sharing your process. It’s amazing how long a story can take to develop! But so worth it in the end.
By horsewriterlady on January 9, 2024 at 4:49 pm
Why ARE they buried so deep, really? Some of them I also feel like are a loose tooth that won’t let go. Really long, strong roots.
A pineapple juice colored car really appeals to me. I’ll be thinking about that awhile. Thanks Julie!
By Tasha Hilderman on January 9, 2024 at 6:43 pm
Thanks for sharing your inspiring process! Kimberly Laura
By SpeechVine on January 9, 2024 at 10:02 pm
Thanks for the reminder to be patient, Julie! And CONGRATULATIONS! I can’t wait to read your new book!
By robinmeby on January 9, 2024 at 11:04 pm
This was encouraging. Picture book writing is moving me closer to patience.
By Sherri T. Mercer on January 10, 2024 at 1:58 am
As a career composer turned writer, I can confirm that this is advice applies to music too. 🙂 Thanks. And I’m a fan of Snappsy.
By nycbgriffin on January 10, 2024 at 10:47 am
Thanks for this, Julie! It’s a great reminder that it takes the time it takes. I have mss 10+ years old the I’m still unburying!
By Judy Bryan on January 10, 2024 at 11:57 am
I loved that you say publishing is not fast and very slow. Take your time with your manuscript, give it enough time to go through several revisions and drafts. Great advice.
By dlapmandi on January 10, 2024 at 4:03 pm
Wow. Thanks for the back story and the reminder to be patient
By kyavorski on January 10, 2024 at 4:47 pm
Julie, I appreciate your advice to take our time, and your newest book sounds delightful. I’ve been a fan since Snappsy.
By Myrna Foster on January 11, 2024 at 12:54 am
Such a reassuring reminder to give projects the time they need. Thank you!!
By jilliangschmidt on January 11, 2024 at 2:37 am
It’s been such a revelation how revision can take your idea and turn it into a story so different from what you originally imagined! Thank you for giving us permission to let our stories simmer ❤️
By jessdavidoff on January 11, 2024 at 2:41 pm
Time is something I need to master instead of rushing before it’s ready.
By Anita on January 11, 2024 at 6:06 pm
Thank you! This is encouraging. I agree. Some ideas are buried much deeper than others. I appreciate you sharing about the time you invested in Help Wanted: One Rooster. It’s good to hear how ideas can strengthen with time.
By Jeanette O'Toole on January 11, 2024 at 6:59 pm
Such wise advice, Julie! It really is a slow-growth process. But worth it!
By Kathy Erskine on January 12, 2024 at 10:12 am
Thanks for sharing the process and your experience and technique!
By kurtzmom548513 on January 12, 2024 at 10:44 pm
Julie, Thank you for this thoughtful, funny, helpful & relatable post!!!
By Katherine Pew on January 13, 2024 at 1:02 am
I know you speak the truth – You’re Julie Falatko after all–but this is SO HARD for me. I “think” a project is ready and ignore the poky bits. Or maybe my story pain tolerance is just too high, LOL. My critique partners need to hog tie me.
By Wendy Greenley on January 13, 2024 at 11:54 am
The waiting is kind of a deterrent for me sometimes but I guess that’s why it’s important to keep writing. I’m hoping to just have a steady stream of ideas.
By Earl @ The Chronicles Of A Children's Book Writer on January 13, 2024 at 8:47 pm
It’s hard how much waiting and persistence is needed, but I’ve had manuscripts that have changed for the better over the years. That simmering time is important!
By brilawyer on January 14, 2024 at 11:47 am
Fantastic story about hiring a rooster on a farm-excellent and clever! You are so right about letting a story sit until it’s reworked and makes the best sense.
Thank you Tara for bringing the voices daily to us that resonate and encourage.
By alambertallen on January 14, 2024 at 11:53 am
Julie – I love the imagery of digging out the story ideas like you were on an archaeological dig. It makes me want to get myself an Indiana Jones hat, pull out my old stories, and dust them off so I can revise.
By Eileen Mayo on January 14, 2024 at 12:55 pm
What great ideas!!! Thank you. I am adding some of this to my PB Toolbox process. Thank you for sharing.
By sburdorf on January 14, 2024 at 5:32 pm
Thank you for your inspirational post. I just took at look at some existing PBs I have haven’t looked at in a while and organized a story I thought of this week while I was at work.
By Melissa Hastings on January 14, 2024 at 6:44 pm
Thanks for sharing your story of persistence and patience! It helps to hear a real-life example of letting things noodle in the background, not having the solve everything all at aonce, and the power behind that!
By kbrandyberry on January 15, 2024 at 12:51 am
This book sounds like so much fun! I can’t wait to read it ☺️
By Kelly Lee on January 15, 2024 at 7:04 am
Oh Julie, I connected with you and this post in so many ways. Mostly, about the importance of NOT rushing it! My favorite thing you said: Creativity isn’t an item to check off. Congratulations on “Help Wanted: One Rooster”. What a fantastic title! Thank you so much for the inspiration.
By Susie Sawyer on January 15, 2024 at 3:55 pm
I think I have a similar slow, fighting, dragging-the-dog out in the snow process!
By Lauri Meyers on January 16, 2024 at 9:03 am
Thanks for this reminder to take breaks from your work. After a first draft I want to go right back and fix things when the piece would definitely benefit from some dormant time.
By Jennifer Kraar on January 16, 2024 at 11:29 am
Congrats on your book and cheers to your perseverance! I love the idea of a book as a buried artifact.
By Johanna Peyton on January 16, 2024 at 12:21 pm
Tincture of time!
By snor5bddfeabba4 on January 16, 2024 at 12:52 pm
Thanks, Julie for your suggestions especially about taking time to think things through after receiving feedback. “Time” and “space” sometimes gives us a fresh perspective. I’m glad you stuck with it – you have definitely inspired me.
By Lisa M. Horn on January 16, 2024 at 11:09 pm
Thnanks, Julie for the motivation, I think. LOL! Can’t wait to read the new book.
By Laura De La Cruz on January 17, 2024 at 1:47 pm
Congratulations! Yes, stories are like artifacts. I never thought of them like that before. Thanks for sharing.
By Dawn M. on January 18, 2024 at 2:26 pm
Thanks Julie. You Rick the Rock book gave me confidence in my inanimate object story!
By Sasha on January 18, 2024 at 3:11 pm
Congratulations on your new book! I found your concept interesting because I recently watched the movie Imagine. In the film, the main character writes his number one song based on a phrase that he had been writing for years in his journals.
By Michelle Dragalin on January 18, 2024 at 4:21 pm
I’m so excited to hear that your book is coming out! This post def inspired me to try and explore some ideas that have been bouncing around for years.
By sherylbhoffman on January 19, 2024 at 10:30 am
I love the analogy of unearthing stories like artifacts. Thank you for sharing that, Julie! Sometimes it’s helpful to think of oneself as an archaeologist, rather than a sculptor.
By Helen Taylor on January 19, 2024 at 5:56 pm
Great advice! I’m impressed you were able to stick with it that long!!
By Brian Burak on January 20, 2024 at 9:56 am
As a list checker offer myself, I really identified with your post. Publishing a book is certainly a long game but good things come to those who wait. Thanks for the encouragement and congratulations on your upcoming book and books to come!
By Kari Ann Gonzalez on January 20, 2024 at 3:12 pm
Ah – mining stories! The process of creativity is always so fascinating to me.
By michellehlosardo on January 20, 2024 at 7:49 pm
Yesss, I feel exactly the same way! Time is such a powerful tool for me in revision. Sometimes I feel guilty and lazy when, after meeting with my critique group, I set their feedback and my manuscript aside for several months before doing anything with it. But that percolating, that intellectual and emotional distance, even sometimes FORGETTING entirely what I liked and didn’t like about my original story and their feedback… is exactly what’s needed to make the right version of it click into place.
(Apologies for the mixed metaphor salad above, woof.)
By Elizabeth Metz on January 21, 2024 at 11:25 am
I have so many stories in so many stages of revision…I completely relate to the 12 year rooster. And would LOVE to take your picture book revision class!!
By abigailmarble21 on January 21, 2024 at 2:01 pm
Such a helpful post! Thank you!
By Lisa Thompson on January 22, 2024 at 1:27 pm
Help wanted: One Julie Falatko! Thank you (again and again) for the inspiration! Tattooing “creativity isn’t an item to check off” on my forearm ASAP.
By Kari Lavelle on January 22, 2024 at 4:26 pm
Wow!! 10 years? That is some perseverance! Sounds like a fun book! Congrats!
By Mary Ann Blair on January 25, 2024 at 7:44 pm
Thank you, Julie!
By Rachel Rizzuto on January 28, 2024 at 11:11 am
Great thinking, thanks!
By Rafael Macho on January 28, 2024 at 7:23 pm
Thank yoi
By denitajohnson on January 29, 2024 at 12:01 am
Thanks so much for sharing your process, so interesting!
By sylviaichen on January 30, 2024 at 4:41 pm
Hello,
This reminds me that sometimes the shiniest gems take a while to come to the surface. Thank you for the reminder! [image: ltp|17066540802505298]
By Pravin Kaipa on January 30, 2024 at 6:35 pm
Inspiring, thanks!
By amandalittleauthor on January 31, 2024 at 2:00 am
A good reminder to be a friend to time. Some things just take how long they take. Thank you and congrats on HELP WANTED. Can’t wait to get it!
By Nazanin Ford on January 31, 2024 at 5:28 pm
Thank you for the “Courage, dear heart!”
By rosiesartventures on January 31, 2024 at 9:51 pm
Putting on my hard hat for some story excavation this year!
By Shira Kelly on January 31, 2024 at 11:41 pm
Wow! Ten years to publish after a book deal seems like it would be a record. Cue the patience! Congratulations on not giving up, Julie, and continuing to publish during that time!
By Adrea on February 1, 2024 at 1:19 am
Great story of being patient and persevering. This helped me a lot. Looking forward to reading “Help Wanted: One Rooster”
By Jeanette O'Toole on February 6, 2025 at 2:33 pm