by Cathy Ballou Mealey
Congratulations Storystormers, you have reached 29 days of ideas! What comes next? You could jot down a plot for your favorite story nugget, or scribble some opening lines. Maybe you will brainstorm clever titles, or look up recent comp books. That’s when you might suddenly discover—oh no!—my idea has already been done!
I can practically guarantee that this has happened to almost everyone at some point in their creative journey. But it does not mean you should give up on your idea! After all, it had enough merit to have been published once, now the concept just needs your fresh take or unique perspective.
Remember old-timey boomboxes like this one?
In a perfect world, your favorite music came through loud and clear as soon as you pushed ON. But if the signal faded or went fuzzy with static, finetuning was required! By spinning the dial or tweaking the antenna, you could find a melody to soothe your soul or set your toe tapping. Think of your initial Storystorm idea like that radio station you must finetune, making adjustments until you hear sweet harmony.
Luckily you have more options than just a wonky knob or wobbly antenna to finetune your initial Storystorm concept. Here are five suggestions to try:
- Change the setting: What if your story took place on the moon? Or underwater? In the winter?
- Change the period: Move your timeframe back to the Jurassic or ahead to the Jetsons!
- Change the point of view: Turn a minor character into the hero and tell the story from their perspective.
- Change the style: Can you incorporate nonfiction or STEM elements, write in first or second person, change rhyme to prose?
- Change the cast of characters: Should you have one, two, three or a crowd of characters? Explore cutting or expanding.
Bonus Tip!
Change the ‘rules’ of your story world or incorporate magical elements. What if bears could fly? What if snow was green? What if writing picture books was easy?
Cathy Ballou Mealey is giving one winner their choice of a signed copy of MAKE MORE S’MORES (US addresses only) or a picture book manuscript critique.
You’re eligible to win if you’re a registered Storystorm 2024 participant and you have commented only once on today’s blog post.
Prizes will be distributed at the conclusion of Storystorm.
Cathy Ballou Mealey is eternally grateful to those who post book reviews! She is the author of MAKE MORE S’MORES, illustrated by Ariel Landy (Sleeping Bear Books, 2023) SLOTH & SQUIRREL IN A PICKLE illustrated by Kelly Collier (Kids Can Press, 2021) and WHEN A TREE GROWS illustrated by Kasia Nowowiejska (Union Square, 2019). Visit her website on most social media platforms @catballoumealey or website CathyBallouMealey.wixsite.com/author.
891 comments
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January 29, 2024 at 8:36 am
thecrowsmap
Cathy, this has happened to me:/ Thanks for these tips. Make More S’mores looks super cute!
January 29, 2024 at 10:53 am
katedemaiowrites
Thank you for this post! Now I’m off to brainstorm a new twist to my already done idea.
January 29, 2024 at 2:50 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Kate! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 2:50 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Maybe we should start a “My Idea Has Been Done!” Club? Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 8:37 am
Robin Brett Wechsler
Yes, that is relatable. Thank you for the suggestions, Cathy! And congrats on your books!
January 29, 2024 at 2:50 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
So relatable, sadly! Thanks Robin!
January 29, 2024 at 8:38 am
pathaap
Great suggestions for fine tuning our ideas, Cathy! I have many that I can apply these to. Thanks!
January 29, 2024 at 2:51 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I hope they will help! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 8:41 am
Mark Bentz
Thank you, Cathy for this great post. Congratulations on your many books. They look fun for kids to read.
January 29, 2024 at 2:51 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks Mark! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 8:44 am
amyhouts
Cathy, I like your suggestions! I’m going to try them out today. I love s’mores. I’ll look for your books.
January 29, 2024 at 2:51 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I’m glad you are a s’mores fan too! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 8:45 am
Melissa H. Mwai
Great suggestions for fine tuning! I like how they are super applicable to any story. Congratulations on your book!
January 29, 2024 at 2:52 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks Melissa! Best of luck fine-tuning!
January 29, 2024 at 6:31 pm
Melissa H. Mwai
Thank you for reading!
January 29, 2024 at 8:46 am
rnewman504
Wonderful ideas, Cathy! Great post!
January 29, 2024 at 2:52 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Cheers Robin! Thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 8:47 am
lynnpesicka
Cathy, thank you for ideas on how to enrich an idea. I am looking forward to trying these stategies out.
January 29, 2024 at 2:53 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Happy Storystorming Lynn!
January 29, 2024 at 8:48 am
tinamcho
Thanks, Cathy, for these tips!
January 29, 2024 at 2:53 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Tina! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 8:51 am
Jessie D. Phillips
I think a lot of writers get discouraged when they already see their idea as a published book and completely scratch it. This is a positive way of changing it to fit within the marketplace and still make the story your own.
January 29, 2024 at 2:53 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Yes – positivity is the way! Thanks Jessie!
January 29, 2024 at 8:53 am
Jany Campana
Thanks Cathy for inspiring me to change things up!
January 29, 2024 at 2:54 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Jany! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 8:54 am
Melissa Rafson Friedman
I think about the idea that it’s “already been done” a lot. It is a challenge!
January 29, 2024 at 2:54 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You can do it Melissa! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 8:55 am
Cathy Lentes
Change is hard. Thanks for the fine tuning the idea so we can fine tune ours.📻
January 29, 2024 at 2:55 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
From one Cathy to another – you can do it! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 8:57 am
kelliearted
Great suggestions! Thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 2:55 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 8:58 am
writeremmcbride
Cathy, your ideas are encouraging for us all! I appreciate the specific suggestions you included!
January 29, 2024 at 2:56 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Encouragement – so important! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 8:58 am
Hilary Margitich
This is a great reminder, and great advice! Thank you, Cathy!
January 29, 2024 at 2:56 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Hilary! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 8:59 am
Sarah Hetu-Radny
Thank you for the post! I will use it to refine my story ideas.
January 29, 2024 at 2:57 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Have fun refining Sarah! Thanks!
January 29, 2024 at 9:03 am
sburdorf
Thank you for sharing your great advice!
January 29, 2024 at 2:57 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 9:04 am
julianamjones728
Bears and smores– that’s an innovative combo! Thanks for sharing your ideas to help us come up with original ideas.
January 29, 2024 at 2:57 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks Juliana! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 9:05 am
susie
thanks for sharing ! cute title – make more s’mores ! love the cover art, too.
January 29, 2024 at 2:58 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks Susie! The illustrator, Ariel Landy, is AMAZING!
January 29, 2024 at 9:05 am
Laura Wippell
Thanks for the inspiration, Cathy! If I see my idea has been done I tend to give up on it, so I love your ideas on how we can finetune instead. Much appreciated.
January 29, 2024 at 2:58 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Don’t give up Laura! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 9:08 am
karenleewyoming
Thanks for sharing! I always figured if my idea had been done by someone else, it was over. This is encouraging!
January 29, 2024 at 2:59 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
It’s not over Karen – keep fine tuning! Best of luck!
January 29, 2024 at 9:10 am
Jane Dippold
Thanks for the ways to change up and freshen a story! Congrats on your books!
January 29, 2024 at 2:59 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are so welcome. Thanks Jane!
January 29, 2024 at 9:12 am
ransonpatti
BINGO! A thought of what to do with an old MS!
January 29, 2024 at 2:59 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Bingo! Love that! Happy reivsing!
January 29, 2024 at 9:20 am
leslieevatayloe
I like this! I’m printing your idea out. Thank you. Best wishes.
January 29, 2024 at 3:00 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Aw – that’s so sweet. Happy Storystorming Leslie!
January 29, 2024 at 9:21 am
sarahpeacetobias
Great ideas!
January 29, 2024 at 3:00 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks Sarah! Good luck!
January 29, 2024 at 9:23 am
bgonsar
Love a bit of boombox nostalgia – thanks Cathy!
January 29, 2024 at 3:01 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Lloyd Dobler – forever lofting his boombox! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 9:25 am
maramarakay
Thanks!
January 29, 2024 at 3:01 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 9:27 am
Alison McGauley
Thanks, Cathy! I love the fine-tuning analogy. You are right, there are only so many ideas in the world so I appreciate these ways of freshening them up!
January 29, 2024 at 3:01 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Good luck Alison and Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 9:29 am
Lisa Thompson
Interesting post. Thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 3:02 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Lisa! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 9:30 am
melissajmiles1
A few years ago, I wrote my best picture book manuscript ever. My critique group loved it. I was in the process of writing a query letter for it when I saw an announcement in PW about a book coming out on the same topic. I pouted a while, but ended up submitting it to a children’s magazine and they bought it. It’s not being published in the way I’d originally intended, but it will be in the hands of kids all the same.
January 29, 2024 at 3:03 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Congratulations Melissa! That’s another great way to keep your PB idea going – a new format! I’ll remember that for a future post! Thanks!
January 29, 2024 at 9:30 am
meganewhitaker21
Love Make More S’Mores! Always fun to take a tried and true story and tweak it a bit! Thank you for the reminder!
January 29, 2024 at 3:03 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh Megan – thanks for your kind words! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 9:30 am
ccspizzirri
Thanks, Cathy, for these great ideas! Congratulations on your books! 📚 🎉
January 29, 2024 at 3:04 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 9:32 am
kcollazo
Thank you for this post, Cathy! These are great tips to be able to look at our drafts in totally new ways! Can’t wait to read Make More S’Mores!
January 29, 2024 at 3:05 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hooray for new views of old drafts! Hope you enjoy the book!
January 29, 2024 at 9:34 am
Sheri Dillard
Very helpful, Cathy! I’m off to try some of these ideas now! 🙂
January 29, 2024 at 3:05 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hello dear friend! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 9:35 am
Claudine Pullen
Thank you Cathy for these great tips.
January 29, 2024 at 3:06 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Claudine! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 9:37 am
Claire A. B. Freeland
Make More S’mores is fantastic. Thanks for the suggestions of how to turn an idea into a winner‼️
January 29, 2024 at 3:06 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks for your kind words Claire! Best of luck with your writing!
January 29, 2024 at 9:39 am
Andria Rosenbaum
Thanks for sharing these 5 fabulous tips, Cathy!
January 29, 2024 at 3:07 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Andria! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 9:40 am
aubreyalliethewriter
It seems that most ideas, if not all, have already been done. However, so many unique perspectives and angles for stories are being published right now. Love this blog post.
January 29, 2024 at 3:07 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I’m so glad Aubrey – thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 9:41 am
kathalsey
Hi Cathy, love the bonus tip. Playing “what if” and adding magical elements sounds like great fun!
January 29, 2024 at 3:07 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Yay for bonuses Kathy! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 9:41 am
theliah1
Thank you, Cathy. Excellent idea. I agree to throw the characters in unexpected situations and places to give the story a boost.
January 29, 2024 at 3:08 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Perfect! Wishing you much success with your Storystorms!
January 29, 2024 at 9:41 am
schellijo
Thank you for the wonderful ideas. It’s amazing what you can think of once you start thinking!
January 29, 2024 at 3:08 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hooray! Glad you found it helpful!
January 29, 2024 at 9:42 am
rosecappelli
Thanks for the great suggestions!
January 29, 2024 at 3:08 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Rose! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 9:44 am
Laura
Love changing up the rules
January 29, 2024 at 3:09 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Let’s be rule breakers! Or benders! Happy writing Laura!
January 29, 2024 at 9:45 am
Donna Rossman
Well, that sparked three ideas already! Many thanks, Cathy. And… what if picture book writing was easy?!? ROFL 😂
January 29, 2024 at 3:09 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Three ideas – yay!!! If only it was easy!
January 29, 2024 at 9:45 am
Jennifer
Thank you for these fine-tuning tips! Great to keep in mind as we storm through our story ideas.
January 29, 2024 at 3:10 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Jennifer! Happy storming!
January 29, 2024 at 9:47 am
anchance
Great tips! Thank you for the inspiration!
January 29, 2024 at 3:10 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Glad you liked them! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 9:48 am
natashaffdfd87f06
Oh so fun!! Thanks for the tips. Can’t wait to read your book!
January 29, 2024 at 3:11 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I hope you like it Natasha! Thanks for reading the post!
January 29, 2024 at 9:49 am
Angel Gantnier
Great ideas =)
January 29, 2024 at 3:11 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks Angel! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 9:51 am
emilystarr07fd78284f
Ahhh, the dreaded scoop! Thank you for the ideas to turn a disappointing revelation into an opportunity to improve!
January 29, 2024 at 3:12 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
The Dreaded Scoop! That’s a great title. Cheers Emily!
January 29, 2024 at 9:52 am
Kimberly Marcus
Thanks so much for your ideas and insight!!
January 29, 2024 at 3:12 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Kimberly! Best of luck!
January 29, 2024 at 9:52 am
Jessica Coupé
Thanks for the great tips and inspiration!
January 29, 2024 at 3:12 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Happy Storystorming Jessica!
January 29, 2024 at 9:53 am
Lucretia Schafroth
Thank you for sharing your suggestions, insights and advice for fine-tuning, Cathy, and for putting a unique, fresh spin on already-been-done story ideas. Congratulations on MAKE MORE S’MORES –it sounds — and looks — absolutely adorable!
January 29, 2024 at 3:13 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Lucretia! And you’re a s’mores fan too? Yum!
January 29, 2024 at 9:53 am
Eric Herrington
I love this idea! Thank you for the creative suggestions for a stumbled-upon redone idea that needs some fine-tuning. Wish you continued success!
January 29, 2024 at 3:13 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Eric! Many thanks for your kind words.
January 29, 2024 at 9:54 am
bookclubhbhs
My favorite prompt is to change the rules of a world, add magic! That resonated with me instantly as I read it and think there must be something to that today that is going to click and specifically be a huge help to at least one of my ideas that was waiting for me to read that! Thanks so much! This is all gold! I can’t wait to check out your books, and when I do, I will make sure to give them reviews. I love that mention about reviews in your bio. I feel like there should always be more reminders and conversations to let people know how helpful and important reviews are!
January 29, 2024 at 3:14 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Magic and gold – hooray! Thanks for the review love – it really matters! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 9:57 am
asiqueira1307
Great tips. Thanks.
January 29, 2024 at 3:14 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Ana! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 9:57 am
ralucasirbu
When we thought there was nothing else new to post to lure inspiration, here she comes… Thank you, Cathy! Thank you for itemizing elements that can change a story and, with those, create a kaleidoscope of possibilities—a really useful blog. Congratulations on your publications.
January 29, 2024 at 3:15 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome! And you should run with that kaleidoscope idea – how fun!
January 29, 2024 at 9:58 am
Lynne Marie
These are great ideas for changing it up! And like with the boombox, there’s always room for improvement LOL Thanks for sharing! LM
January 29, 2024 at 3:16 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Ha ha – my budget boombox was always in need of tuning. Lloyd Dobler had it easy! Happy writing Lynne!
January 29, 2024 at 9:59 am
millerritam
Love your ideas! And s’mores!
January 29, 2024 at 3:16 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
S’mores! Thanks for your kind words. Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 10:00 am
Deborah Agranat Sullivan
Super fun tips to fine-tune an idea, Cathy! Thanks for sharing!
January 29, 2024 at 3:17 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I hope they help! Thanks Deborah!
January 29, 2024 at 10:05 am
Mia Geiger
Great post! Thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 3:17 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Mia! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 10:08 am
Melissa McDaniel
Great advice, Cathy! Thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 3:18 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I’m glad you liked it Melissa! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 10:09 am
thehugbooks
Wonderful! Thank you for setting up a year of revising. Because writing IS revising!
January 29, 2024 at 3:18 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are SO right! Write and revise! Best of luck!
January 29, 2024 at 10:12 am
kirstenbockblog
Great ideas for making a manuscript sing! Thanks for your post!
January 29, 2024 at 3:19 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Kirsten! Sing it loud!
January 29, 2024 at 10:14 am
zoodocwrites
Looking forward to trying these ideas with some of my PBs!
January 29, 2024 at 3:19 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Wishing you the best of luck! Thanks!
January 29, 2024 at 10:16 am
Stacy S. Jensen
Love these ideas! I love that picture books are short enough that it’s a little easier to rethink than a whole novel. 🙂
January 29, 2024 at 3:20 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hello dear friend! I’m in awe of novelists – I could never do it! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 10:17 am
Katie Schwartz
Cathy, thank you for this post, I love your analogy for fine tuning ideas similar to the radio knob to achieve ‘sweet harmony’! This is going to be my mantra for 2024, to keep going for the harmony! And I laughed outloud at your ‘magical’ comment, ‘What if making picture books was easy’? Isn’t it😂? Thank you again, and congratulations on all your successes!
January 29, 2024 at 3:21 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
We could all use that PB writing magic Katie! LOL Best of luck!
January 29, 2024 at 10:19 am
kellybirdsong2019
Thank you for the great ideas!
January 29, 2024 at 3:21 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Kelly! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 10:19 am
marty
If there ever was an image that says YIKES! that photo on your post does it best! Thank you, Cathy, for the list of tips and tricks to try instead of ditching that initial spark because you discover the topic already out there. I remember the delicate fine tuning of a clock radio! Maybe I should try a circa setting? Great prize choices for winners. Reminding us of how reviewers help and how much they are appreciated is so helpful. Happy 2024 Storystorming for the finish!
January 29, 2024 at 3:23 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Yikes indeed! Yep, keep that spark and channel it in a new direction. Thanks Marty!
January 29, 2024 at 10:22 am
Suzanne Lewis
Thanks for those perfect thumbnail tips, Cathy! Sooo helpful at this Storystorm stage!
January 29, 2024 at 3:32 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Good luck with your Storystorm ideas Suzanne! Thanks!
January 29, 2024 at 10:22 am
Colleen Owen Murphy
Thank you Cathy! That exact thing happened to me very recently. I was enthused and well into research on a topic. In the midst of all my note taking a picture book comes out about my idea. So bummed!! I am thinking I can focus on one element that the other book touched upon, but which I would go into in more depth. We shall see. Thanks for the list of ideas about how to approach it.
January 29, 2024 at 3:33 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh Colleen – drat! You are welcome to join the “My Idea’s Been Done!” club and we’ll keep encouraging one another. Best of luck!
January 29, 2024 at 10:23 am
Jennifer
Thanks so much for the reminder that we don’t always have to ditch a beloved idea entirely!
January 29, 2024 at 3:34 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are right Jennifer! Thanks and happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 10:26 am
Karin Larson
Thank you for the great advice. Very helpful! I love the cover of MAKE MORE S’MORES!
January 29, 2024 at 3:34 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks – I love it too! Ariel Landy is a brilliant illustrator!
January 29, 2024 at 10:27 am
Natalie Lynn Tanner
CATHY: “What if writing picture books was easy?” That’s EVERYTHING in a nutshell, REALLY! THANK YOU for the INSPIRATION to find different ways to “tune-in” to our stories. I am now SO CRAVING S’MORES–AND MORE S’MORES–both the book and the YUMMY treat! THANK YOU!!!
January 29, 2024 at 3:35 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh if only it were easy Natalie! Sending you my thanks and a virtual s’more or two! Enjoy!
January 29, 2024 at 10:30 am
krharrellnw
I frequently think of The Barenaked Ladies song “It’s All Been Done”. I have written a manuscript for an ABC book, of which there are countless titles. Hopefully the concept is novel enough to eventually grab an editors’ attention.
January 29, 2024 at 3:35 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh that’s a great reference too! Thanks! And best of luck with your alphabet book. You can do it!
January 29, 2024 at 10:30 am
lecon
Thank you for more inspiration to get our creative ideas flowing!
January 29, 2024 at 3:36 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 10:33 am
annette schottenfeld
Cathy, You were spot on! I’ve had so many great story ideas and then found that someone else already had that same idea. Ugh. I love what you said about re-framing the story. Thank you and congratulations on your adorable book!
January 29, 2024 at 3:37 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Annette – you can be a member of the “My Idea’s Been Done” Club as well! It’s okay – keep going! Thanks!
January 29, 2024 at 10:33 am
Helen M. Waters
I’m just starting down the research journey. It’s good to have these tips in mind, not least so I don’t get discouraged! Thanks so much!
January 29, 2024 at 3:37 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You can do it Helen! Happy Storystorming and researching!
January 29, 2024 at 10:36 am
writerdi2020
This year’s Storystorm, including your post today, has really pushed me to see the potential in revising even at the idea level. Small tweaks like you suggest can have a huge impact! Feels like that is obvious but was good to think through this morning. Thanks!
January 29, 2024 at 3:38 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Bravo! Good for you and best of luck!
January 29, 2024 at 10:43 am
Catherine Friess
I love the idea of turning a minor character into the hero – you may just have helped me solve a tricky plot problem. Thank you so much!
January 29, 2024 at 3:39 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
From one Catherine to another – hooray! I am SO happy if that tip solves your tricky plot problem. Best of luck revising!
January 29, 2024 at 10:45 am
Kathryn LeRoy
I find my idea has been done before, but…I remember that I’m the only person who can tell the story my way. Thanks for the reminder.
January 29, 2024 at 3:39 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Who was it that said there’s no one you-er than you? You are right! Best of luck and Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 10:47 am
amybeth349
I think it will be fun to go back to a story and move it to another setting time period. I never thought about that. Great suggestion. I will miss these tips. Thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 3:40 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Good luck Amy! Thanks for your comment!
January 29, 2024 at 10:50 am
mariautumn7c81b37a0a
Thank you for the advice on changing up ideas. I’ve felt the pain of an idea that’s already been done.
January 29, 2024 at 3:40 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks Maria and best of luck with your writing!
January 29, 2024 at 10:53 am
Joy Wieder
Thanks for the tips! They already inspired some ideas for fine tuning my ideas!
January 29, 2024 at 3:40 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Joy! I’m glad you were inspired today. Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 10:55 am
M.R.
These are great tips, even if my idea hasn’t already been “done”!
January 29, 2024 at 3:41 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
That’s a bonus then – hooray! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 10:57 am
helenlysicatos
Thank you for the great tips on fine tuning a story idea that has already been done.
January 29, 2024 at 3:41 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Helen! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 10:58 am
Evelyn Day
Thanks for the ideas!
January 29, 2024 at 3:41 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
My pleasure Evelyn! Thanks for your comment!
January 29, 2024 at 11:00 am
nancyakolb1
We call our cabin S’more Shores so I will definitely by the S’mores book. Thanks for sharing. Nancy
January 29, 2024 at 3:42 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh wow – what a great name for a cabin! Do you have s’more makings on hand all the time? Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 11:02 am
Laurie Elmquist
Hi Cathy, Just look at all the comments and how many different ways there are to say thank you. I think we can come up with even more! A well-timed post for this Monday morning.
January 29, 2024 at 3:43 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks Laurie! Merci! Tusen Takk! (a little Norwegian for you!)
January 29, 2024 at 11:03 am
Leah Marks
Thanks for the suggestions. Change is inevitable. It is how you decide to approach it, that is most important.
January 29, 2024 at 3:44 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
That’s the spirit Leah! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 11:03 am
Daryl Gottier
Thanks for the wonderful suggestions!
January 29, 2024 at 3:44 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Daryl! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 11:04 am
allyenz
Ok, so now I’m curious if you discovered there were already books about s’mores! Or more s’mores? Or bears eating s’mores? 🙂
January 29, 2024 at 3:46 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
There are other s’mores books out there – but none that I could find in rhyme for younger readers, so I didn’t have to pivot too much with my original idea. Although it did start out as a counting book! One marshmallow, two graham crackers and three chocolate sections = one s’more!
January 29, 2024 at 11:04 am
Laurie Bouck
Really great tips! Thank you for sharing!
January 29, 2024 at 3:47 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Laurie! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 11:04 am
hamblinkris
What came to mind for me when reading your post was all of the different variations of Cinderella.
Kris
January 29, 2024 at 3:47 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
That’s right Kris – lots of fun twists on a familiar theme. PBs are so fun!
January 29, 2024 at 11:08 am
serendipityinstars
Great tips! That’s happened to me many times only to ditch the idea. Thank you for the reminder to change it up. Your books look adorable!
January 29, 2024 at 3:48 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thank you so much! Go get those ideas out of the ditch right away! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 11:09 am
chris109shestak
“What if Writing was easy?” LOLOLOL
January 29, 2024 at 3:48 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
RIGHT??? Thanks for laughing with me!
January 29, 2024 at 11:11 am
mornagersho
I love all these ideas on how to take something that has been done before and give it a new twist. Change the setting, POV, characters, style or even time period are all great but changing the POV can be so powerful! There is so much to learn from
ackknowledging multiple perspectives. Thank-you!
January 29, 2024 at 3:49 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 11:12 am
Kindness Kangaroo
there is always a chance to re-imagine something that was already created
January 29, 2024 at 3:49 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Yes! Best of luck with your Storystorm!
January 29, 2024 at 11:12 am
Jenny Boyd
This post came at just the right time. Thanks for the tips! Your book titles sound adorable.
January 29, 2024 at 3:50 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I’m so glad Jenny – thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 11:12 am
saintamovin
Thank you Cathy 📡📻
January 29, 2024 at 3:50 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 11:15 am
leahmoserwrites
Such great advice! Thank you for this post.
January 29, 2024 at 3:50 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks for your comment! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 11:15 am
abby mumford
You had me at MAKE MORE S’MORES, but those practical tips (because, true, no idea is new…just the execution) and the humor-drenched post kept me hanging around.
January 29, 2024 at 3:51 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Yay – another s’mores fan! I’m so glad you stayed for the tips and the humor!
January 29, 2024 at 11:18 am
Melissa L Lettis
It’s a hard wakeup call when it happens, but can really push you to great, creative solutions!
January 29, 2024 at 3:51 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh – yes a wake up call indeed, and I am not a morning person! Thanks for your comment and happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 11:18 am
snor5bddfeabba4
tweak it!
January 29, 2024 at 3:52 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Tweak on! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 11:19 am
Carol Gwin Nelson
This asks for the reminder to think beyond the idea on the list!
January 29, 2024 at 3:52 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Good point Carol! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 11:21 am
effiekoliopoulos
This has happened to me a couple of times but that just tells me that I’m creative enough to think of that too! Thank you for the tips!
January 29, 2024 at 3:52 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hooray Effie! Thanks for your comment!
January 29, 2024 at 11:23 am
kristarantino
I could go for a S’more right now! Thanks for the tips on tweaking into a fresh idea.
January 29, 2024 at 3:54 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Kris! Loved your Writing Barn launch event with Cori for BE MY VALENSLIME! Congratulations to you!
January 29, 2024 at 11:27 am
Evelyn B.
Thanks for the tips! Very relatable !
Make More S’mores sounds fun! Congrats!
January 29, 2024 at 3:54 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks Evelyn – happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 11:27 am
joanswanson58
It has happened to me as well. I get an idea, write it out or research some facts, and low and behold, I see a PB that has already been written about my idea. Thank you for the advise of changing it up then.
January 29, 2024 at 3:55 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Joan – you too can be a member of the “My Idea’s Been Done” club! We’re friendly and encouraging. Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 11:29 am
paulajbecker
Thanks for the list of ways to modify an idea, Cathy! Very helpful!
January 29, 2024 at 3:55 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Paula! Best of luck!
January 29, 2024 at 11:30 am
Annelouise
Hi, Cathy. I love your post. Thank you for the encouragement and the fun suggestions to keep in mind when crafting our stories!
January 29, 2024 at 3:56 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
So kind of you Annelouise! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 11:31 am
judyrubin13
Thank you, Cathy, for sharing your tips on fine-tuning our story ideas.
January 29, 2024 at 3:56 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Judy! Thanks for your comment!
January 29, 2024 at 11:32 am
gottawritenow
Thank you Cathy, your post hits the nail on the head- recycle, recreate, revamp, refresh ideas already done, do with a twist, a turn, your own spin on the old to make it new-be unique be you! Love “change the rules” tip! Look forward to reading your books.
January 29, 2024 at 3:57 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You have a great way with words – inspiring! Best of luck with your Storystorm!
January 29, 2024 at 11:32 am
reedandwritekids
Thats a great way to look at it, not to scrap the idea just pivot!
January 29, 2024 at 3:57 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Pivot – that’s perfect! Thanks so much!
January 29, 2024 at 11:34 am
kwillette13
Thanks for sharing some tips, Cathy! I love the visual of the radio – what a great analogy! That image in itself triggered a PB idea for me. Are the tips you’ve listed in your post related to how you came up with the idea for Make More S’Mores?
January 29, 2024 at 3:58 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh hooray – you have your idea for today already! The s’mores book had to be finetuned away from a counting book and into a bedtime book. A tiny tweak!
January 29, 2024 at 11:34 am
Tracey Kiff-Judson
Great suggestions! Thank you. I had an idea that I found has been written (many times over). I think maybe I could simplify it to a board book though… Maybe I could mash that up with one of your suggestions to make it more unique as well!
January 29, 2024 at 4:00 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh I like that – maybe your idea could be a different published format! Another commenter mentioned submitting her idea to a magazine successfully after finding that similar PB’s were forthcoming. Great suggestion!
January 29, 2024 at 11:34 am
brennajeanneret
Yes! Great tips, thank you so much for sharing!
January 29, 2024 at 4:00 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Brenna! Thanks for commenting!
January 29, 2024 at 11:36 am
Christina
Cathy, thank you for sharing your ideas. My favorite comment was, ” Change the rules.” Three words that stress the importance of thinking outside the box.
January 29, 2024 at 4:01 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Let’s break or bend those rules Christina! Thanks!
January 29, 2024 at 11:37 am
Mona Pease
Thanks for the ideas of how to stretch a story to another place or time or even character. You just gave my creative stall a boost to recreate!
January 29, 2024 at 4:01 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Mona – hello! Happy writing and creating. You can do it!
January 29, 2024 at 11:38 am
Earl @ The Chronicles Of A Children's Book Writer
Make More S’mores looks absolutely adorable. Thanks for the tips.
January 29, 2024 at 4:02 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Earl! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 11:40 am
Lindsey Aduskevich
Love this post! And how funny. We currently have When A Tree Grows in our library stack right now and we loved Sloth and Squirrel in a Pickle. You’re so creative, Cathy and this post was very inspiring. Thank you! Can’t wait to read Make More S’mores!
January 29, 2024 at 4:03 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Wow Lindsey – thanks for sharing the book love! Aren’t libraries The Best Thing Ever? Hooray!
January 29, 2024 at 4:13 pm
Lindsey Aduskevich
Yes! They are my absolute favorite!! 😊📚✨
January 29, 2024 at 11:40 am
Mikki McFeve
I hate when that happens.
January 29, 2024 at 4:03 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Me too Mikki! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 11:43 am
Writer on the run
So true- you have that moment of brilliance, the band is playing, the awards are being given, and you realize that’s so yesterday- thanks for the reminder to go back to the drawing board and change it up!
January 29, 2024 at 4:03 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Change it up – perfect! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 11:43 am
Marie Prins
Yup! That’s happened to me too…similar story but by someone else. Yikes! What to do? Thanks Cathy, for these excellent tips on how to revise that story and make it uniquely mine.
January 29, 2024 at 4:04 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Marie – you can do it but yup, it is a discouraging moment. Keep going!
January 29, 2024 at 11:45 am
Sally
Recently learned my fave idea is already in existence. NOOOOOOO!! Haha. Thanks for the suggestions!!
January 29, 2024 at 4:06 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh Sally – hope these ideas might help a little bit! Keep going!
January 29, 2024 at 11:45 am
Claudia Sloan
Thanks for the suggestions, very helpful! I’ll be going through my list pretty soon trying these out 🙂
January 29, 2024 at 4:07 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
A list of Storystorm ideas is like money in the bank! Best of luck Claudia!
January 29, 2024 at 11:49 am
katecarroll
Your post points to so many ways that we can reinvent our stories, Cathy! Thanks for sharing and making it seem easy!
January 29, 2024 at 4:08 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Kate – thanks! Hope it’s easy, breezy and fun to reinvent when necessary!
January 29, 2024 at 11:50 am
swollis
Great idea- change the rules of you story world : )
January 29, 2024 at 4:08 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks for your comment! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 11:56 am
Laura Purdie Salas
Thanks for this reminder of ways we can reimagine a manuscript. It’s always so disappointing to discover an idea has been done. Sometimes my brain just freezes.
January 29, 2024 at 4:10 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh – the worst brain freeze isn’t it? Thanks for your comment Laura. Congratulations on the Eureka Gold Medal for Finding Family! It’s a beautiful book!
January 29, 2024 at 11:58 am
Joyce Frank
These are great tips for every manuscript. Thank you.
January 29, 2024 at 4:10 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Joyce! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 12:02 pm
michelemeleen
It’s all been done before, really, but what makes us each unique is our overall personality and experience. It’s a good reminder that we can make unique stories.
January 29, 2024 at 4:10 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Yes Michele – you are right! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 12:03 pm
gregoryfulgione
Thanks for your suggestions on how to breathe new life into our story ideas! Hopefully our stories will be transformed into winners!
January 29, 2024 at 4:11 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Winners one and all Gregory! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 12:05 pm
joanlongstaff
Definitely a great reminder to change and tweak and fine tune those stories that are on tried and tested themes. Thanks for the tips.
January 29, 2024 at 4:11 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Joan! Best of luck!
January 29, 2024 at 12:06 pm
marshaelyn
Cathy,
Reading “What if writing picture books was easy?” made me laugh out loud! I like your dry humor. Thank you for your “tips” in how to turn our “tired-out” stories into something fresh so they don’t become road-kill on the path to publication. I believe you’d be a terrific critique partner, pushing and encouraging us to think outside the box of cliche concepts. Sending you energy and inspiration for your continued success….
January 29, 2024 at 4:12 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
We’ve got to laugh Marsha – it is definitely NOT easy! But you can do it! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 12:07 pm
Kristi Mahoney
Cathy–this is exactly the post (and advice) I needed today! Thanks for the reminder and permission to changes things up a bit. A fantastic post–thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 4:12 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hooray Kristi! Happy Storystorming! 🙂
January 29, 2024 at 12:07 pm
bevbaird
These are all great tips Cathy. Thanks for your post. Off to make some changes!
January 29, 2024 at 4:12 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Good for you! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 12:09 pm
laurelneme
What a nice breakdown of ideas for how to switch it up and get your creative juices flowing!
January 29, 2024 at 4:13 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hi Laurel – thanks so much for your comment! May those creative juices flow!
January 29, 2024 at 12:10 pm
MeiLin Chan
Great ideas for giving a concept a make-over and each element can spawn so many different approaches on its own! Thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 4:13 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh – a makeover – that’s a great idea! Thanks MeiLin!
January 29, 2024 at 12:10 pm
Janet AlJunaidi
Thank you Cathy! Love snow being green! Your books look wonderful. Congratulations!
January 29, 2024 at 4:14 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks so much Janet! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 12:10 pm
emmelineforrestal
Great reminder that even if an idea has already been done (which, let’s be honest, most have!) there are still plenty of ways to put a fresh spin on something! Thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 4:14 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Spin, spin, spin Emmeline! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 12:10 pm
Christine Graham
Thanks for bumping me past the “It’s already been done” line and into thinking about options.
January 29, 2024 at 4:15 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Christine! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 12:13 pm
Loralee Petersen
It’s good that you directed us towards thinking past Storystorm. Ideas are great fun, but they are far from a finished product. It’s time to start thinking of making choices and doing actual work on one or a few ideas. And I have to find your book on S’mores. Yum! Thanks for posting.
January 29, 2024 at 4:16 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Good for you Loralee! I’ll bet you’ve got some strong ones on your list already!
January 29, 2024 at 12:14 pm
laureannawrites
Well now I’m off to do some fun research into a new character idea. Thanks!
January 29, 2024 at 4:16 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I’m so glad! Happy researching and writing!
January 29, 2024 at 12:15 pm
debjohnson21
Ah! I can see I am not the only one who has had this happen! Thank you for the tips to change the story!
Deb Johnson
January 29, 2024 at 4:17 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Ah no – you are not alone! Thanks for reading and commenting!
January 29, 2024 at 12:16 pm
Elayne
Cathy, I love the list of specific things to try as we push ourselves to tell our own unique stories! 🙂 Thank you for sharing!
January 29, 2024 at 4:17 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Elayne! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 12:17 pm
Angie
Great tips, Cathy! These are very good ways to reconsider ideas that have been done. Yes! Congrats on your Make More S’mores! Can’t wait to read it.
Angie Quantrell
January 29, 2024 at 4:18 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks Angie! I hope you finish Storystorm with lots of new ideas!
January 29, 2024 at 12:18 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
Thank you, Cathy, for sharing ideas on writing about a topic or subject with a fresh take or a new perspective.
Suzy Leopold
January 29, 2024 at 4:18 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Suzy! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 12:18 pm
Gaby L.
I love the idea to try “change the point of view” of a character. Writing book reviews could be a really good exercise, thank you for reminding us. I’m waiting to read “When a tree grows” looks with a lot of humor on it . Congrats for your new book, I am a bear character lover.
January 29, 2024 at 4:19 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I love bears too, Gaby! Ariel Landy created some really cute ones for the s’mores book! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 12:23 pm
LaurenKerstein
SUCH helpful tips! Thank you. Haha–what if writing picture books was easy? We’ll never know. 🙂 🙂
January 29, 2024 at 4:19 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Ha ha ha Lauren! We will NEVER know! But if we did….
January 29, 2024 at 12:25 pm
shirley301
Great tips. I just cut a character from my pb and reduced my word count.
January 29, 2024 at 4:20 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
That’s fantastic Shirley! Go, go, go!
January 29, 2024 at 12:28 pm
lisakdaviswriting
Great tips! Thank you very much! I know I can definitely use these!
January 29, 2024 at 4:20 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks Lisa! Best of luck!
January 29, 2024 at 12:30 pm
Brenda Covert
Changing the POV worked for me! My love for Christmas led me to a re-telling of the Christmas story from a different POV. Late last fall, I received a publishing contract for my story!
January 29, 2024 at 4:20 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Congratulations Brenda! You must be over the moon!
January 29, 2024 at 5:00 pm
Brenda Covert
Thank you! I am for sure! Now you’ve got me considering other classic stories that I could re-tool and re-tell!
January 29, 2024 at 12:30 pm
geigerlin
Congrats, Cathy, on MAKE MORE S’MORES! Thank you for suggesting ways to add life to works-in-progress!
January 29, 2024 at 4:21 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thank you so much! Best of luck with your Storystorm ideas!
January 29, 2024 at 12:31 pm
ptnozell
Love that analogy to fine tuning like a radio, and those strategies for pivoting when necessary. Thanks for sharing, Cathy.
January 29, 2024 at 4:21 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Pat! I bet your Storystorm list has some great ideas!
January 29, 2024 at 12:32 pm
lorimkeatingyahoocom
Thanks for the fun suggestions, Cathy!
January 29, 2024 at 4:22 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Lori! Best of luck!
January 29, 2024 at 12:33 pm
susanmlatta
Wonderful tips, thanks so much!
January 29, 2024 at 4:22 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Susan! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 12:35 pm
erozmus
These are so great! Thanks for sharing!
January 29, 2024 at 4:22 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 12:45 pm
robincurrie1
“That’s my story” happened to me just recently – thanks for the work around!
January 29, 2024 at 4:22 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Ugh! Such a feeling! Hope the tips help!
January 29, 2024 at 12:49 pm
sheriradovich0384
Thanks for your suggestions and post today. It sparked new ideas for me and I will start working on something new.
January 29, 2024 at 4:23 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hooray! That’s so exciting! Best of luck!
January 29, 2024 at 12:54 pm
syorkeviney
I realized this morning that I needed to review, rework, revise, redo, refresh, “re-everything” on so many of my manuscripts. Storystorm has been leading me in that direction this year and your post confirmed it! Thank you for the extra little push I needed… off I go! (And now I will reply!.. Is the opposite of reply, ply ??? Another manuscript idea, interesting…)
January 29, 2024 at 4:23 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
That’s terrific! Best of luck with all your ideas!
January 29, 2024 at 12:59 pm
Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator
Yes, I have had that happen. Now I give those ideas another look with a fresh eye. Thanks.
January 29, 2024 at 4:24 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh Dayne – it’s the worst! I hope these ideas help a bit!
January 29, 2024 at 1:00 pm
Jill Lambert
This has happened to me more than once! Thank you for offering solutions to rescue these stories, Cathy!
January 29, 2024 at 4:24 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
It still stings no matter how many times it happens, but I hope these suggestions help a little bit! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 1:06 pm
jilliangschmidt
Definitely a relatable and reassuring post, and thanks for the list of great tips!
January 29, 2024 at 4:25 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are too kind! Thanks Jillian and good luck!
January 29, 2024 at 1:06 pm
Teresa Rodrigues
It’s depressing to find out your new, fantastic story idea has already been done, but, these tips to give it a new spin are wonderful. Thanks for sharing, Cathy!
January 29, 2024 at 4:25 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You can do it Teresa – keep going! Thanks for your kind words.
January 29, 2024 at 1:06 pm
Laura Perdew
Excellent points to remember both with ideas that have already been “done” and for manuscripts that aren’t getting picked up. Besides, sometimes it’s just fun to play with a manuscript. Thanks for the great tips!
January 29, 2024 at 4:26 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Play is SO important Laura – I agree! Best of luck!
January 29, 2024 at 1:07 pm
Joyce P. Uglow
Superb ideas for tweaking!
January 29, 2024 at 4:26 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I hope they help a little Joyce – thanks!
January 29, 2024 at 1:16 pm
Kathy Erskine
Thanks, Cathy—so true that we’ve all run into that feeling of our idea now being obsolete, but we can just turn it on its head, right?
January 29, 2024 at 4:27 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Yes Kathy – on its head, its side, inside out! Whatever works! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 1:16 pm
Lauren
Oh yes, that is the worst to discover your story has been done…. But, I appreciate these tips, thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 1:25 pm
kurtzmom548513
Some great ideas not just in case someone has used your idea but as a way to vary a common theme. Thanks so much!
January 29, 2024 at 4:28 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome! Thanks for your kind words!
January 29, 2024 at 4:28 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks Lauren – I hope they help a little bit!
January 29, 2024 at 1:22 pm
Lisa Billa
Thanks for this post! These are great tips for making manuscripts stand out.
January 29, 2024 at 4:28 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hooray Lisa! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 1:25 pm
Poupette
Thanks for taking me out of my setting rut!
January 29, 2024 at 4:29 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Begone setting rut! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 1:28 pm
Bettie Boswell
So true… and thanks for the advice about switching things around so your story can be unique enough to differ from someone else’s.
January 29, 2024 at 4:29 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks Bettie! Wishing you the best!
January 29, 2024 at 1:30 pm
fleischmana6
Yes! I have totally had an exciting idea (once written and even dummied) only to find it’s been recently published- ugh! Thanks for the list of doable ideas that make revamping a story a fun creative endeavor instead of a chore!
January 29, 2024 at 4:30 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Ouch – that stings! Even dummied! Hope these tips help a little!
January 29, 2024 at 1:32 pm
heidikyates
Thank you for the helpful tips, Cathy! Now I’m excited to play around with some of my old manuscripts.
January 29, 2024 at 4:30 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hooray for play Heidi! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 1:35 pm
jilltatara
Great post! I especially love that bonus tip about changing the rules. Inspiring! Thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 4:31 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I love bonuses and I love that you were inspired! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 1:37 pm
Dawn Prochovnic
Thanks for this practical, actionable post. It helped me refine my thinking for several of my ideas.
January 29, 2024 at 4:31 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
That’s terrific Dawn! Wishing you a successful Storystorm full of fun ideas!
January 29, 2024 at 1:40 pm
nrompella
Ah yes, I think many of us have had that happen. LOL. Great idea to mix things up and make it our own.
January 29, 2024 at 4:31 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thank you! Gotta laugh so we don’t cry, right? Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 1:42 pm
gattodesign
Totally agree, if it was published once, why not again. Great suggestions. Thanks.
January 29, 2024 at 4:32 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 1:45 pm
beaumontsd2
Such an encouraging post, Cathy! It has moved me closer to beginning with confidence that I can bring something unique to a story idea and bring in some magic! Thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 4:32 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I’m glad it was encouraging and I hope you find that magic! Best of luck!
January 29, 2024 at 1:45 pm
Christine Letizia
Thank you for the suggestions! It will be fun exploring how to make ideas new and interesting.
January 29, 2024 at 4:33 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You can do it Christine! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 1:45 pm
Gail Aherne
Cathy, thanks for the great tips! This is a great reminder to persevere.
January 29, 2024 at 4:33 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are so right Gail – perseverance is an essential writer’s tool! Best of luck!
January 29, 2024 at 1:47 pm
Michael Henriksen
Thanks for the positive perspective and tangible tips, Cat! By fine-tuning my brainstorming boom-box I can SAY ANYTHING in a fresh way! Now it s’more bearable to deal with “It’s been done before”! 💛Congrats on your latest book!🐻📚🤗
January 29, 2024 at 4:34 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh the puns Michael! I love it! Lloyd Dobler would be a good PB writer – he was creative and persistent!
January 29, 2024 at 1:49 pm
elizabethwilcoxsaba
Thanks Cathy and signed copies are always a wonderful prize!
January 29, 2024 at 4:35 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Elizabeth! Good luck!
January 29, 2024 at 1:57 pm
Lauren Barbieri
Great suggestions—thank you for the post!
January 29, 2024 at 4:35 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Happy Storystorming Lauren!
January 29, 2024 at 2:03 pm
mlyablonaolcom
Thanks for the encouragement! I think I’ll go back and take another look at one of my manuscripts that I put away after I found a newly published book on the same subject 🙂
January 29, 2024 at 4:35 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Time to look again for sure. Hope these tips help a little!
January 29, 2024 at 2:05 pm
Leslie Santamaria
Thanks, Cathy! Your post made me realize that one of my ideas lends itself nicely to incorporating STEM elements.
January 29, 2024 at 4:36 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
That;s terrific Leslie! Go, go, go!
January 29, 2024 at 2:06 pm
jumpbaby
Love the idea of finetuning a boombox!
Cheryl Johnson
January 29, 2024 at 4:36 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I’m so old school Cheryl! No Spotify for me!
January 29, 2024 at 2:09 pm
kamalani3
This is wise advise. We often think we canʻt write about something because itʻs already been done. Thanks for reminding us that thereʻs a lot we can do!
January 29, 2024 at 4:37 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks for your kind words. Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 2:17 pm
1marth1
Thank you for your fine-tuning ideas. Most subjects have been covered by now, so they need a fresh approach to be interesting. I like your book titles. They sound like fun.
January 29, 2024 at 4:37 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thank you! Hope you find that fresh, fun approach!
January 29, 2024 at 2:22 pm
Alicia Shawn Gagnon
Never tried a magical element…thanks for all the ways to find a new angle. Can’t wait to read Make More S’Mores! Yummy!
January 29, 2024 at 4:38 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Good luck Alicia! I hope your library has a copy ready and waiting!
January 29, 2024 at 2:27 pm
francesmackayblog
Thanks Cathy. Yes most of our ideas have been thought of already! The trick is to make them unique in some way. I just love the cover of your Make More Snores book. The title is very intriguing and the illustrations draw me in! You nailed it!
January 29, 2024 at 2:29 pm
francesmackayblog
Sorry did a typo – should be S’mores – not snores!!!
January 29, 2024 at 4:39 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Typos are a GREAT way to generate ideas as well Frances! Maybe Make More Snores should be the companion title! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 6:22 pm
francesmackayblog
Yes Cathy, More Snores would be a great title – about hibernating animals!!!
January 29, 2024 at 2:31 pm
Ilona B
I’ve never done an underwater story…hmmm. Thanks!
January 29, 2024 at 4:39 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Me either! Salt water or fresh water! Good luck and have fun!
January 29, 2024 at 2:34 pm
streetlynn
Thanks for the brainstorming ideas!
January 29, 2024 at 4:40 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 2:35 pm
Lauri Meyers
What IF writing picture books was easy?! Love that and the rest of the tips, Cathy!
January 29, 2024 at 4:40 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
What if, my friend, what if? What would we do with all our spare time? Oh – we’d be READING those picture books! LOL
January 29, 2024 at 2:40 pm
Armineh Manookian
Thank you, Cathy, for your encouragement and tips! Looking forward to checking out Make More S’mores.
January 29, 2024 at 4:41 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks for your kind words Armineh! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 2:48 pm
Aimee Larke
Yes, What if writing were easy. ha! Thank you for the ideas. I love smores!!
January 29, 2024 at 5:21 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
S’mores fan unite! I wish I could make writing easy, but maybe these tips will help a little. Happy writing Aimee!
January 29, 2024 at 2:56 pm
Karen Gebbia
Such great advice! Thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 5:21 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Karen! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 3:00 pm
catlady45
So relatable – that sinking feeling of this has already been done. Thank you for helping us to get past that.
January 29, 2024 at 5:22 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
True! Swim don’t sink, and keep paddling! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 3:06 pm
Margie Markarian
Great ideas! Love your picture books!
January 29, 2024 at 5:22 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thank you for your kind words Margie! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 3:08 pm
Deborah Ishii
Thanks for your finetuning ideas! They’ll be helpful when revising my writing ideas!
January 29, 2024 at 5:22 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I’m so glad Deborah! Happy revising!
January 29, 2024 at 3:09 pm
claireannette1
I remember when this appened to me. I worked so hard on a manuscript and then read a PW announcement about a book very similar to mine. Perhaps it’s time to take that ms back out and write it in a whole new way. Thanks!
January 29, 2024 at 5:23 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh boy that stings! I hopes you take another look and maybe these tips will help Claire!
January 29, 2024 at 3:14 pm
Linda KulpTrout
So many wonderful tips! Thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 5:23 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Linda! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 3:14 pm
kellietheridgeauthor
Good ideas for tweaking a story idea! Thanks for sharing. Ideas are already brewing.
January 29, 2024 at 5:24 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I love your suggestion that ideas are brewing! Good luck Kellie!
January 29, 2024 at 3:21 pm
Lori Williams Writing
I am playing with the idea of changing the rules of my own story- It opens up a whole new story idea. Thanks for your suggestions!
January 29, 2024 at 5:24 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
That’s wonderful Lori! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 3:24 pm
lauranclement
I really loved this post. Great idea’s for looking at things fresh and having a new adventure with a concept/idea. Thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 5:25 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Have a happy adventure with your ideas Laura! Thanks!
January 29, 2024 at 3:27 pm
Carmen Swick-Author
I am having to fine tune my story, might have to do a flip-flop.
Thank you!
Carmen
January 29, 2024 at 5:25 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Flip-flop is a fun word! Wishing you much success Carmen!
January 29, 2024 at 5:49 pm
Carmen Swick-Author
Thank you!!
January 29, 2024 at 3:27 pm
M. Fuller-Morris
Great ideas for making an idea unique! Thanks!
January 29, 2024 at 5:26 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are so welcome! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 3:40 pm
susanahearn45
Thanks for this advice about looking at story ideas from different viewpoints to create a new story. Loved the radio analogy!
January 29, 2024 at 5:26 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Tune it up and turn it up Susana! Hope you hear sweet melodies soon!
January 29, 2024 at 3:43 pm
Mary A Zychowicz
These are great suggestions. Thanks for the ideas!
January 29, 2024 at 5:26 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Mary! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 3:43 pm
riverwoods21
Thank you so much for the revision tips. Congratulations on your books. Penny T.
January 29, 2024 at 5:27 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thank you so much Penny! Wishing you lots of good Storystorm ideas!
January 29, 2024 at 3:44 pm
Jane Heitman Healy
These are great ways to look at one’s manuscript with new eyes! Congratulations on your success!
January 29, 2024 at 5:27 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I’m glad you liked the tips Jane! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 3:49 pm
tinefg
Thank You Cathy, some great suggestions for new perspectives, it may be worth trying these an all new ideas (and manuscripts already written) who knows? I look forward to reading “Make More S’Mores”!
January 29, 2024 at 5:28 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thank you so much! I hope your library has a copy of Make More S’mores ready for you to check out!
January 29, 2024 at 4:01 pm
Janet Halfmann
Thanks for all the tips to make any idea new again!
January 29, 2024 at 5:29 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I’m glad you liked the tips Janet! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 4:09 pm
jenniferjschmidte207d3cec9
Love the idea to add STEM!
January 29, 2024 at 5:29 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
STEM or STEAM – add it in if you can! Editors are looking for those extra layers. Best of luck!
January 29, 2024 at 4:13 pm
Rebecca Colby
Time to fine tune. Thanks for the suggestions, Cathy.
January 29, 2024 at 5:31 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Rebecca! May your ideas rain down like Bats and Frogs!
January 29, 2024 at 4:27 pm
sallymcclure
I changed my POV and it made all the diff. Thanks!
January 29, 2024 at 5:31 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hooray Sally – that’s great! Keep going!
January 29, 2024 at 4:30 pm
Linda B
Looking forward to fine tuning my Storystorm ideas!
January 29, 2024 at 5:31 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Good for you Linda! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 4:34 pm
TL Fales
Has definitely happened to me. Thanks for the ideas to explore when finetuning.
January 29, 2024 at 5:32 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh dear – it really stings doesn’t it? Hope these tips help a little!
January 29, 2024 at 4:39 pm
Lisa
I love your article! My brain is going to have more fun with some of the PBs I’ve already written & thought were finished. Thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 5:33 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hooray Lisa – that’s wonderful! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 4:49 pm
Amy Grover
Thanks, Cathy! This is a great checklist to keep close by!
January 29, 2024 at 5:34 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I love lists! I’m thrilled that you liked this one! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 6:00 pm
Amy Grover
Wow, thank you so much for the individual reply! That’s never happened to me before in Storystorm! 🙂
January 29, 2024 at 6:05 pm
Amy Grover
Wow, thank you so much for the individual reply! That hasn’t happened to me before in Storystorm. Really appreciate it! 🙂
January 29, 2024 at 4:54 pm
lzgodfrey
Great tips for revisiting my ideas! Thank you, Cathy! Congrats on your book!
January 29, 2024 at 5:34 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thank you so much! Have fun revisiting those ideas!
January 29, 2024 at 5:08 pm
Peggy Dobbs
There are so many creative ways to make a story idea your own. Thanks for the inspiration!
January 29, 2024 at 5:35 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are so welcome Peggy! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 5:09 pm
Denise Gallagher
Thank you Cathy, for these great suggestions on how to reimagine some of my ideas!
January 29, 2024 at 5:35 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I hope you have fun Denise! Thanks for your comment!
January 29, 2024 at 5:16 pm
Gayle Veitenheimer
Great suggestions.
January 29, 2024 at 5:36 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I’m so glad that you liked them Gayle!
January 29, 2024 at 5:17 pm
lhofke
Thanks for the tips
January 29, 2024 at 5:36 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are very welcome! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 5:22 pm
taracho4
Thank you, so creative and helpful! This has happened to me more than once and your post gave me ideas for new approaches. Much appreciated!
January 29, 2024 at 5:37 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
It does sting when it happens, but I am glad I was able to suggest some things to try and finetune your ideas!
January 29, 2024 at 5:23 pm
Aly Kenna
Thanks Cathy, great suggestions. I love coming across books that turn familiar things on its head and ‘Make More S’Mores’ is no exception. Keep up the good work and thank you for throwing some little gems at us 🙂
January 29, 2024 at 5:38 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Aly! Glad you found some gems that sparkled for you!
January 29, 2024 at 5:26 pm
Matthew Lasley
Time to go through my list and see what ideas I can conjure up with a slight tweak.
January 29, 2024 at 5:38 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Isn’t it great to have a Storystorm list to review? Like money in the bank! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 5:30 pm
Annie Guerra
Very good suggestions to revive or make a picture book idea more fun!
January 29, 2024 at 5:39 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Fun is so essential to the picture book creation process! Keep going Annie!
January 29, 2024 at 5:34 pm
Stephanie D Jones
I’m thinking I might use the “change it up” idea to take me through February!
January 29, 2024 at 5:40 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I think February is a Leap Year this year! Are you ready? Best of luck Stephanie!
January 29, 2024 at 6:19 pm
Stephanie D Jones
Thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 5:35 pm
TonyaAnn Pember
Saving this post for when I find out my idea has already been done!
January 29, 2024 at 5:41 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I hope it hasn’t already been done TonyaAnn, but maybe these tips will help in some way! Thanks!
January 29, 2024 at 5:44 pm
Cathy Stefanec Ogren
Thanks, Cathy! Good advice!
January 31, 2024 at 10:14 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
From one Cathy to another – hooray! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 5:48 pm
jnorland
So useful! I am going to lead a Jane Austen fan fiction workshop in the spring & this blog piece offers + a bonus offer an excellent starting point for brainstorming (to be credited, of course.)
January 31, 2024 at 10:15 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
What a great workshop idea! Best of luck and Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 5:48 pm
Dawn M.
Great suggestions! Thanks for sharing.
January 31, 2024 at 10:15 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Dawn! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 5:50 pm
shadikafi
I absolutely love this, my imagination goes wild with all the versions that can be created from 1 idea using these tips! One of my fave blogs, thanks so much!
January 31, 2024 at 10:15 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hooray! So glad you found the tips helpful. Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 5:51 pm
lauriekaiserwrites
Help! I subscribed to the Storystorm emails, but they stopped after Day 10. ??? Is there any way they can be sent to me so I can keep them all together? Thank you!
January 31, 2024 at 10:16 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh dear – a cyber glitch! Maybe you can turn it into a story idea? I bookmarked Tara’s blog and come right to the site each day. Hope that helps!
January 29, 2024 at 5:57 pm
lsheroan
Great suggestions if an idea seems already to have been implemented by someone else, but also great ideas to deepen an original idea! Thank you!
January 31, 2024 at 10:17 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are so welcome! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 5:57 pm
lavern15
Thanks for these tips, Cathy! There are so many “what if” questions out there to give our stories a new twist.
January 31, 2024 at 10:17 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks to Chubby Checker, we all know how to do the twist! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 5:57 pm
JoLynne Ricker Whalen
Thank you for sharing on clever ways to rethink and revise!
January 31, 2024 at 10:18 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome JoLynne! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 5:59 pm
coachrochelle
Love this!
January 31, 2024 at 10:18 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks!
January 29, 2024 at 6:02 pm
hansenjc13
I love the idea of fine tuning and shaking things up a bit! Currently working through this on a manuscript
January 31, 2024 at 10:18 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You can do it! Hope these suggestions help a little!
January 29, 2024 at 6:11 pm
Allison Green
Oh golly, this has happened to be twice this month! I thought I had a unique idea only to find it’s already been done. Thanks for the tip to look at it from a new angle.
January 31, 2024 at 10:19 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Twice?? (gulp) Sorry Allison – that really stings! Best of luck with your Storystorm ideas – you have popular ones!
January 29, 2024 at 6:15 pm
goodreadswithronna
Perfectly timed post, Cathy! Am now going to revisit bringing magic into one of my drafts. If animals can talk, why can’t kids time travel? Pretend is powerful!
January 31, 2024 at 10:20 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hello dear Ronna! Pretend is powerful indeed – you are so right! Wishing you many imaginative Storystorm nuggets to turn into wonderful stories!
January 29, 2024 at 6:16 pm
marty bellis
Love this, Cathy! It’s so true and so discouraging, but if we power through and look for our own unique spin, that wonderful idea may yet become a story! Thanks for the suggestions.
January 31, 2024 at 10:21 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Love your positive attitude Marty! That’s what it takes indeed! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 6:16 pm
cnparch
Great tips, Cathy! Thank you. 🙂
January 31, 2024 at 10:21 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are so welcome! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 6:17 pm
haleypaige91
Wow, this is almost like it was written for me. I dumped several story ideas that I was initially excited about because I looked up if similar stories had been done and they had. I look forward to switching it up and making those ideas unique!
January 31, 2024 at 10:23 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Don’t be discouraged Haley – get those ideas back from the dump and make them sparkle! You can do it!
January 29, 2024 at 6:21 pm
Sara Weingartner
Thanks for the awesome tips! And congrats on all of your books. Can’t wait to read them. 🙂
January 31, 2024 at 10:23 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Sara! Hope your library has copies on hand for you to read!
January 29, 2024 at 6:31 pm
Carol Gordon Ekster
Great post, Cathy! And so happy for your #kidlit successes.
January 31, 2024 at 10:24 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
And I am so happy for YOURS Carol! How many years ago did we meet at The Carle in Harold Underdown’s class? Hooray for SCBWI too!
January 31, 2024 at 2:01 pm
Carol Gordon Ekster
You have a great memory! And it was many many years ago. But I can still picture the room with Harold and Eileen. Great day! Haylet Barrett was there, and I think Carol Munroe, too.
January 29, 2024 at 6:37 pm
cathystenquist
Thanks for the great post Cathy. Thanks for stopping by with some great ideas.
January 31, 2024 at 10:26 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hooray hooray from one Cathy to another! I think about FOREVER HOME whenever I see cats posted for adoption! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 6:42 pm
authordebradaugherty
Thanks, Cathy, for your helpful suggestions. Change is good.
January 31, 2024 at 10:26 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I agree that change is good Debra -especially for story ideas! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 6:44 pm
redreadsandwrites
I love these tips! They are great for tweaking a story to be different. Thank you! I have “Make More S’mores” on hold on my local library. They have three copies!
January 31, 2024 at 10:27 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks for your lovely comment! I hope you enjoy S’MORES and please thank your library system for getting THREE copies! My system has only one!
January 29, 2024 at 6:48 pm
Angela De Groot
Thanks for the tips, Cathy. I’ve requested Make More S’mores from my library.
January 31, 2024 at 10:28 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are so welcome Angela! And thank YOU for requesting S’MORES from the library! Hooray!!
January 29, 2024 at 6:54 pm
marywarth
Thank you, Cathy. I appreciate the reminder to stretch the creativity even in the face of a recently published idea!
January 31, 2024 at 10:29 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I love the concept of ‘stretching’ an idea – it sounds like a nice gentle nudge! Happy writing Mary!
January 29, 2024 at 6:58 pm
rindabeach
A little change can do you good! Thanks for 5 suggestions to find that change 🙂
January 31, 2024 at 10:30 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Rinda! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 6:58 pm
Bethanny Parker
Thanks for helping us reimagine our old ideas into new ones!
January 31, 2024 at 10:30 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I hope these tips help a little Bethanny! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 6:58 pm
lindakaychavezbooks
So many what ifs to ponder! Thanks for sharing your ideas!
January 31, 2024 at 10:31 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Ponder! Definitely part of my writing process every day! Thanks Linda!
January 29, 2024 at 7:05 pm
58chilihed13
Please Miss! I want s’more! love the “changes” suggestions, but now craving s’mores like crazy! Thanks!
January 31, 2024 at 10:31 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Ah! Another s’mores fan – hooray! They are indeed yummy!
January 29, 2024 at 7:14 pm
Kaye Baillie
Thanks Cathy! I needed that prompt! And congrats on your S’mores book! Looks yummy 🙂
January 31, 2024 at 10:32 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hello Kaye! Thanks so much! Are s’mores popular in Australia? I’ve seen UK s’mores made with chocolate digestive biscuits. Have to try that someday!
January 31, 2024 at 6:20 pm
Kaye Baillie
Hi Cathy,
Smores have become known in Australia but are more of a US thing. But delicious for sure!
January 29, 2024 at 7:22 pm
signeddiane
Thank you for these ideas, Cathy! I have totally discovered an older book with my idea. I’m plowing ahead, since my MC is a different species and therefore has a different perspective.
January 31, 2024 at 10:34 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh that’s clever Diane – a new species! And sometimes much older books need modern rethinking, so you are probably onto something good!
January 29, 2024 at 7:24 pm
kathleengauer
Love your analogy – that fine tuning our story ideas is like tweaking the wobbly antenna or spinning the wonky dial on an old radio until you hear sweet harmony. Thanks for all of your suggestions on how to accomplish this and also for donating a copy of your “Make More S’mores” book. I plan to read all of your books and have added them to my growing list.
January 31, 2024 at 10:34 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks Kathleen! Storystorm also makes me library list much longer and richer. Another bonus to the process!
January 29, 2024 at 7:25 pm
Bedwards
Thanks for your pointers and congratulations on your book. Looks yummy.
January 31, 2024 at 10:35 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thank you so much! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 7:28 pm
schumerthc
This just happened to me! You’ve given me some great ideas for change. Thanks.
January 31, 2024 at 10:36 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Sorry – that stings! Hope these ideas will help you a little to finetune it!
January 29, 2024 at 7:29 pm
debbiemoeller
Great suggestions! Thanks for the post.
January 31, 2024 at 10:36 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Debbie! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 7:35 pm
peasecja
Love the change ideas and that bonus is also awesome!
January 31, 2024 at 10:36 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I love giving a bonus when I can! Thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 7:40 pm
Lyn Miller-Lachmann
I know what it’s like to have a book idea already “done.” Thank you for these suggestions!
January 31, 2024 at 10:37 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Lyn! It is really tough to discover something’s already published but maybe these tips can help!
January 29, 2024 at 7:42 pm
Christina Dankert
Thank you suggestions on ways to change it up. Make More S’mores sounds adorable!
January 31, 2024 at 10:38 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Aw – thanks Christina! Ariel Landy’s art is super adorable! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 7:46 pm
anaarchistories
I think my main character just got a much needed sidekick. Thanks for the fine-tuning suggestions!
January 31, 2024 at 10:39 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh that’s great to hear! I’m excited for your Storystorming success!
January 29, 2024 at 7:55 pm
Andrea Mack
These are such great ideas!!! Thanks!!
January 31, 2024 at 10:39 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Andrea! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 7:57 pm
cathyrose54
Great idea for fine tuning your story concept.
January 31, 2024 at 10:39 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
From one Cathy to another – hooray! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 8:49 pm
Trine Grillo
Sometimes I find these type of changes difficult because I love my story. But I will be brave and try!
January 31, 2024 at 10:40 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I hear you Trine! I always keep a copy of my original “been done already” idea in my files before I change it up because I fall in love with my stories too!
January 29, 2024 at 8:54 pm
sblotevogel
Great advice! Thank you!
…and now I have to go find the fixings to make myself some s’mores… 🙂
January 31, 2024 at 10:41 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Yum! Make enough and I’ll be right over with my favorite roasting stick! Happy writing and happy smore-ing!
January 29, 2024 at 8:55 pm
margaretsmn
Some writers advise that you hold your idea close and not talk about it. Do you agree? I usually talk to someone, but I’m careful who it is.
January 31, 2024 at 10:44 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I’ve heard that too, but once you have trusted critique partners you may find that it is fun to hold a ‘brainstorming’ session in which you all share ideas and swap suggestions. I don’t think anyone will steal your idea! I get excited when I hear what others are working on and I just want to cheer them on and offer support!
January 29, 2024 at 9:00 pm
Ellie Langford
I love smores. I like your ideas and want smore.
January 31, 2024 at 10:44 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Yay – another s’more fan! Happy writing Ellie!
January 29, 2024 at 9:02 pm
Stephen S. Martin
What if S’mores were made of pancakes, Avocado and Peanut Butter?
January 31, 2024 at 10:45 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Well THAT is a super idea Stephen! Write that book!
January 29, 2024 at 9:20 pm
sharonkdal
YEP! That’s happened all right! Thank you for the terrific ideas to do some fine tuning instead of giving up!
January 31, 2024 at 10:45 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Yep – ouch – it stings Sharon! Hope these tips will help a little!
January 29, 2024 at 9:35 pm
Jessica Iwanski
Definitely has happened to me! And I’m sure will happen again. Saving these ideas for when I’m feeling stuck and need a fresh spin! 🙂 Thanks, Cathy!
January 31, 2024 at 10:46 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Fingers crossed it won’t happen again soon Jessica! Thanks for your nice comment!
January 29, 2024 at 9:39 pm
madisu2021
Yes, I can consider adding magic to a story. Been waiting to try. It didn’t seem to fit the genre’ but lets see. Thanks for the suggestions. I think I’ll also try an Author study on Cathy Ballou Mealy.
January 31, 2024 at 10:47 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Magic is a tricky one to add but it may lead you to a new genre or POV. Play around with it and have fun. Abracadabra!
January 29, 2024 at 9:44 pm
vgraboski61gmailcom
Yes, the dreaded “OH NO! THAT SOUNDS JUST LIKE MY IDEA!” i hate when that happens, but I do like your ideas. Thank you! I can’t wait to read your books.
January 31, 2024 at 10:48 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
It really IS dreaded isn’t it? Hope these tips will help a little when or if it does! Thanks!
January 29, 2024 at 9:51 pm
jenabenton
Great suggestions for overcoming that all to familiar hurdle. Great entry!
January 31, 2024 at 10:50 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks Jena! Your Simply 7 is one of my favorite book blogs! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 9:54 pm
Ben Jeder
Bookmarking this for the next time this happens! Great advice
January 31, 2024 at 10:50 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks Ben! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 9:59 pm
Diane O'Neill
Thanks so much for the inspiration and tips! Looking forward to reading Make More S’mores!
January 31, 2024 at 10:51 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Diane! Hope your library has a copy of Make More S’mores on hand for you!
January 29, 2024 at 10:01 pm
rosihollinbeck
Change it up! Yes, very good advice. Thanks for the post.
January 31, 2024 at 10:52 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hi Rosi! Thanks for much! Wishing you a successful Storystorm full of new ideas!
January 29, 2024 at 10:04 pm
Jill Purtee (P. J.)
You offered so many ideas in so few words; no wonder you write PB!
January 31, 2024 at 10:54 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Ha ha Jill – my first draft of this post was MUCH longer but…it is Day 29 of Storystorm and I knew shorter was better as we wrap up a long month. Cut, cut, cut! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 10:04 pm
rgstones
Love this post…and the epic “Say Anything” boombox.
January 31, 2024 at 10:56 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thank you! I really need to re-watch that movie! It came out in 1989! (gulp)
January 29, 2024 at 10:05 pm
seschipper
Thanks for your inspiring post! It becomes that “Oh NO!” moment when you see somebody with “your” idea! Looking forward to reading and reviewing MAKE MORE S’MORES!😊📖
January 31, 2024 at 10:57 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Yep – that “Oh no!” moment really stings! I appreciate your kind words about Make More S’mores! Thank you!
January 29, 2024 at 10:06 pm
donnacangelosi
Great ideas for changing things up! Thanks so much!
January 31, 2024 at 10:57 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Donna! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 10:11 pm
ldodson100
Love all of these suggestions to change up a story. Changing the period is a unique concept to think on. Thank you!
January 31, 2024 at 10:58 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I hope it helps you nudge the story in a fresh direction! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 10:28 pm
Natasha Garnett
Congratulations, Cathy and Ariel. MAKE MORE S’MORES looks adorable. Ah, the minor character- why shouldn’t she get to tell the story?
January 31, 2024 at 10:58 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks Natasha! So kind. I hope your underdog minor character gets a chance to shine!
January 29, 2024 at 10:32 pm
jbbower
Thank you, Cathy for an encouraging post. It’s good to know that even time-worn tales, when told with a fresh perspective, might get a second look/chance. Thanks again!
January 31, 2024 at 10:59 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hooray for encouragement! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 10:32 pm
nicolesalterbraun
Looks like a cute book. I need to change up things more often. I get stuck on my first idea and if it doesn’t work, I go work on something new. Thanks for the suggestions
January 31, 2024 at 11:00 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Nicole. Hope you get a chance to go back to those first ideas and try one of these tips!
January 29, 2024 at 10:34 pm
Diane McBee
After reading your recommendations, I just had an idea about how I could change a story I have been pondering. Thanks for sharing.
January 31, 2024 at 11:00 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hooray! That makes me SO happy Diane! Go, go, go!
January 29, 2024 at 10:39 pm
littleseedsread
Great advice and very helpful, as several of my ideas have been done before. 😦 I won’t give up on them though. You’ve turned on a light!
January 31, 2024 at 11:01 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome! I’m glad the light is shining on your story idea!
January 29, 2024 at 10:55 pm
Eileen Saunders
Great ideas, thanks
January 31, 2024 at 11:01 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Eileen! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 10:55 pm
tracyschuldthelixon
I love the idea of changing the setting or the time period to create a whole new story. Time to go back through the list and see what I can change to cultivate some new ideas. Thank you!
p.s. I’m ALWAYS up for more s’mores! What a fun premise for a story.
January 31, 2024 at 11:02 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Yay – another s’mores fan! Having a list of Storystorm ideas to ponder is like money in the bank. Good luck!
January 29, 2024 at 10:59 pm
JF Hall Writes
Ooh I love the idea of adjusting the wonky dials! That visual makes the process feel so much more fun. Thank you, Cathy! And congrats on your books.
January 31, 2024 at 11:03 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks JF! I hope you have a fun and happy Storystorm!
January 29, 2024 at 10:59 pm
Kate Grimm
Thank you for the ideas!
January 31, 2024 at 11:03 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Kate! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 11:07 pm
Karen
I am going to add magic to my story. I’ve been thinking about trying it and now I have the courage. Thanks for the suggestions.
Reply
January 31, 2024 at 11:03 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Abracadabra Karen! Magic can be tricky but transformative. Good luck!
January 29, 2024 at 11:16 pm
Linda Sakai
Thanks for reminders on changing things up.
January 31, 2024 at 11:04 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Linda! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 11:18 pm
91mikim19
Rules are meant to be broken!
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January 31, 2024 at 11:05 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I agree! Break, bend or change those writing rules!
January 29, 2024 at 11:20 pm
8catpaws
I get it… MAKE MORE S’MORES…ON THE MOON!!
January 31, 2024 at 11:07 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Okay – SMORES ON THE MOON! Write that book! Can’t you just envision astronauts roasting marshmallows on their rocket exhaust?
January 29, 2024 at 11:27 pm
Tarja Helena Nevala
Change the rules and for sure change the rules you have made for yourself. 🙂
January 31, 2024 at 11:07 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
That’s a great point Tarja! We have our OWN rules to break, bend and change too! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 11:31 pm
Alicia Meyers
Love this! And my goodness the cover of your book is ADORABLE
January 31, 2024 at 11:08 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks Alicia! Ariel Landy is SO talented and clever with her work!
January 29, 2024 at 11:47 pm
Virginia Rinkel
I love this open mind approach to change your mind!
January 31, 2024 at 11:08 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thank you Virginia! Happy Storystorming!
January 29, 2024 at 11:47 pm
D. Kim
Awesome tips, Cathy! Thank you! 😊
January 31, 2024 at 11:09 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are so welcome! Happy writing!
January 29, 2024 at 11:49 pm
MDalphin Williams Creative.Com
Thanks so much for your post Kathy. This has happened to me a few times. I like your idea of switching out colors or place in setting a story. And, who doesn’t like S’Mores?? Every five years at our family reunion in Glacier Park making these was one of the highlights. Bears were not invited.
January 31, 2024 at 11:10 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
LOL – I do not invite bears OR raccoons to my s’mores parties in real life either! Happy Storystorming!
January 31, 2024 at 3:26 pm
MDalphin Williams Creative.Com
Thanks. I just love Storystorm.
January 29, 2024 at 11:49 pm
MDalphin Williams Creative.Com
Thanks so much for your post Kathy. This has happened to me a few times. I like your idea of switching out colors or place in setting a story. And, who doesn’t like S’Mores?? Every five years at our family reunion in Glacier Park making these was one of the highlights. Bears were not invited.
January 29, 2024 at 11:51 pm
brilawyer
My CPs and I have been worried after seeing similar stories to ours get published lately so this is very comforting. Thanks for sharing!
January 31, 2024 at 11:11 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I hope these tips will help a bit – and good for you and your CPs to talk and share market news with one another. It really helps to have others cheering you on!
January 29, 2024 at 11:58 pm
kdgwrites
Thank you Cathy for the great suggestions. I love the idea of making it a bit magical!
January 31, 2024 at 11:12 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Abracadabra and alakazam! Magic can be tricky but transformational for the right story! Good luck!
January 30, 2024 at 12:20 am
Steena Hernandez
I love your five suggestions, Cathy! And thanks for giving us permission to “change” the rules and find the magic! 🙂
January 31, 2024 at 11:12 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Wishing you lots of Storystorm magic Steena! Thanks!
January 30, 2024 at 12:32 am
brightwishbooks
This was a great and rather fun exercise! Tweaking a few things really made me think differently! Thank you
January 31, 2024 at 11:12 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
That’s wonderful to hear! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 12:37 am
stefsenn77yahoocom
These sound like fun ideas to try, thanks, Cathy!
January 31, 2024 at 11:15 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome! Happy Storystorming!
January 30, 2024 at 1:18 am
mrbellasgmailcom
Thank you, Cathy! You just confirmed that I am on the right track with my one manuscript where the secondary character is a baseball legend, no longer with us, that shows up in a dream!
January 31, 2024 at 11:15 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Ooh – sounds intriguing! Good for you and happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 1:21 am
Jane F.
A picture book idea of mine with informational text and a fiction story (Storystorm Day 25) is already out there. Thank you for your six tips to give it another chance.
January 31, 2024 at 11:16 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Sorry Jane – that stings! Hope these ideas help you revisit and revise!
January 30, 2024 at 1:31 am
Jess Hedaria
I have found myself in this same predicament so many times. I like the strategies for how to expand on an old idea. Thank you for sharing.
January 31, 2024 at 11:17 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
That’s a great word Jess- predicament! Hope these tips give you a new boost!
January 30, 2024 at 1:31 am
percyandcat
Cathy, I love your ideas and innovative approaches to old ideas. I am sure there are plenty of books that have drawn on some of the same ideas, but with some tweaking, they are new and different. Thank you so much!
January 31, 2024 at 11:17 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are so welcome! Happy Storystorming!
January 30, 2024 at 2:00 am
Marcia Berneger
Sometimes you just put it in a drawer and wait a few years. I wrote a wonderful PB manuscript about Debbie Friedman, then discovered not one, but two bios of her were already on submission. Both sold and released within 4 months of each other. I liked my format but the information was exactly the same between all three books. SIGH!!
January 31, 2024 at 11:19 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh my goodness Marcia! You were SO close! That really stings and has definitely happened to me too. Wishing you all the best with your Storystorm ideas!
January 30, 2024 at 2:34 am
kelpellico
Thanks for the great tips!
January 31, 2024 at 11:19 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 2:43 am
Maria Johnson
Such a great approach for when your idea has been done (and what hasn’t, right?). I love this sense that there’s always room for more if you have something unique to add. Thanks for the hope!
January 31, 2024 at 11:19 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hope – that is the key isn’t it Maria? Best of luck with your writing!
January 31, 2024 at 9:45 pm
Maria Johnson
Thank you so much! You, too!
January 30, 2024 at 2:53 am
lphunt
Yes! Thanks Cathy for this. Had several story ideas that I dumped because they’ve already been done. I’ll get them back out, dust them off and see about fine tuning them.
January 31, 2024 at 11:20 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Dusting and tuning indeed – wishing you much success!
January 30, 2024 at 3:41 am
mommamoocow
Fun ideas to try!
Sharon Nix Jones
January 31, 2024 at 11:20 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
That’s great Sharon! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 3:41 am
sharongiltrowauthor
Love these fine tuning ideas :-).
January 31, 2024 at 11:21 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thank you so much! Happy Storystorming!
January 30, 2024 at 4:17 am
Tanya Konerman
Being of the Boombox Era, I hear your message loud and clear 🤩
January 31, 2024 at 11:23 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Tanya – I just had to look up when Say Anything came out – 1989! Sheesh! Time to watch it again and figure out why Lloyd Dobler is stuck in my head. I’m looking forward to your MUD TO THE RESCUE book!
January 30, 2024 at 4:29 am
cassiazaven
These ideas were helpful today in finding a new path and a new way of thinking and are great reminders I should have in my craft toolbox. Thank you for the post.
January 31, 2024 at 11:24 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh hooray Cassia! Let’s all keep our craft toolboxes handy during Storystorm!
January 30, 2024 at 7:16 am
Vanessa Konoval
Really great fine-tuning ideas! We’ve all felt that comp-title crash. And these are also awesome approaches for when a MS just feels like it’s missing something. Thanks for posting, Cathy!
January 31, 2024 at 11:25 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Ooh comp title crash! Yep! I can sense myself craving a sugary boost! Hope these tips help a little Vanessa!
January 30, 2024 at 7:18 am
steveheron
“What if writing picture books was easy!” Priceless. Love your humour.
January 31, 2024 at 11:26 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Heh heh Steve! We laugh so we don’t cry, right? Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 7:28 am
lynjekowsky
Thank you for the great tips. Especially the reminder to consider changing the setting.
January 31, 2024 at 11:27 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I hope they help a little Lyn! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 7:34 am
readmybook2002
Thank you Cathy for showing us how to tweak an idea into another book idea.
January 31, 2024 at 11:28 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are so welcome! Happy Storystorming!
January 30, 2024 at 7:52 am
Mark Ceilley
So many great ideas to make our stories more unique and stand out!
Thank you for your post!
January 31, 2024 at 11:29 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I am so glad you found it helpful! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 9:12 am
kvavala
That’s happened to me a few times! Thank you for the different ways to make mine unique and stand out! Appreciate YOU!
January 31, 2024 at 11:30 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh I am so sorry – that stings! But I appreciate YOU too and your lovely comment. Happy Storystorming!
January 30, 2024 at 9:40 am
naturewalkwithgod
Cathy, I love your idea of changing the “rules” for a story. What fun that could be! –Kim Peterson
January 31, 2024 at 11:31 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Yes Kim – bend, break and change those rules when you can! Happy Storystorming!
January 30, 2024 at 10:24 am
kkgchoco
Cathy, thanks for giving us a fresh spin on how to deal with ideas that have been done and could possibly benefit from our unique perspective for a re-do.
January 31, 2024 at 11:32 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
A fresh spin – you just gave me an idea for my laundry story – thanks!
January 30, 2024 at 10:39 am
Judy Bryan
So many great suggestions to fine tune and tweak your ms into something wonderful. Thank you!
January 31, 2024 at 11:32 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are so welcome Judy! Happy Storystorming!
January 30, 2024 at 11:01 am
Lindsay Moretti
Oh to count the many times my ideas have been taken! Thanks so much for the helpful tips!
January 31, 2024 at 11:33 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh no – you’ve lost count? You must be on track with great publishable ideas Lindsay! Hope these tips help a little!
January 30, 2024 at 11:17 am
karammitchell
This is great, Cathy! I get stuck in my head with ideas. These are great ways to get out of my comfort zone!
January 31, 2024 at 11:34 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Good luck Kara! You can do it! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 11:25 am
Janice Woods
Great tips! Thanks so much for sharing!
January 31, 2024 at 11:35 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Janice! Happy Storystorming!
January 30, 2024 at 11:34 am
Michelle S Kennedy
I love the inspiration you have given me with this tip! “Used: ideas truly can become something just by changing an aspect or perspective!
January 31, 2024 at 11:35 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I am so glad that you were inspired! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 11:57 am
Sally Matheny
Excellent suggestions! Thank you. I have an old manuscript I need to pull back out. When I first pitched it years ago, they liked the writing but weren’t sure about the concept. Since then, I’ve seen two sucessful books released using the same concept! Maybe I can revisit it and shake it up.
January 31, 2024 at 11:36 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Ouch – that stings Sally! Hope these tips will help you revisit that great idea!
January 30, 2024 at 12:45 pm
Srividhya Venkat
Great tips… Thank you, Cathy!
January 31, 2024 at 11:37 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are so welcome Srividhya! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 12:48 pm
Melissa Escobar
Ah, excellent tip here! Thank you for these wonderful suggestions, I’m going to file this away for future stories.
January 31, 2024 at 11:37 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I am so glad it was helpful Melissa! Happy Storystorming!
January 30, 2024 at 12:53 pm
Mary Ann Blair
Thank you for this post and your idea to tweak manuscripts to turn them into something new! Your book looks sweet!
January 31, 2024 at 11:38 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks for your kind words Mary Ann! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 1:03 pm
claireflewis
Some great suggestions here! Thank you very much!
January 31, 2024 at 11:40 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Claire! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 1:13 pm
Laurie Seaford
What a delightful cover! Not only am I eager to read MAKE MORE S’MORES; I’m ready to munch on a s’more. Thank you for your encouraging words and practical tips to finetune my own concepts.
January 31, 2024 at 11:41 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I agree Laurie – Ariel Landy created an amazing cover! Thank you!
January 30, 2024 at 1:36 pm
Kari Lavelle
Thank you, Cathy! Excited to check out your book (and eat s’mores)!
January 31, 2024 at 11:42 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hi Kari! Thanks for checking out Make More S’mores! BUTT OR FACE? is a HUGE hit here and I am so happy seeing it get so much book love from kids!
January 30, 2024 at 1:40 pm
Suhasini Gupta
Great suggestions, Cathy. Thank you, for sharing!
January 31, 2024 at 11:43 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thank you Suhasini! Happy Storystorming!
January 30, 2024 at 1:52 pm
Bridgitte Rodguez
I like this! Thanks for sharing.
January 31, 2024 at 11:43 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Glad you liked it Bridgitte! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 2:42 pm
Nancy Ferguson
Thank you, Cathy. This will help when I am discouraged that there is nothing new!
January 31, 2024 at 11:44 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I hope it does help! Boo to discouragement! Happy Storystorming Nancy!
January 30, 2024 at 2:48 pm
Jenn
Thank you for the bit of nostalgia along with some really helpful advice. (And for the chuckle “what if writing was easy?” Oh, if it were….)
January 31, 2024 at 11:45 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I am so glad you appreciated my little joke Jenn! We laugh so we don’t cry, right? And yay for nostalgia and old movies and music!
January 30, 2024 at 2:53 pm
shereenicole
Thank you for sharing Cathy!
January 31, 2024 at 11:45 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thank YOU for commenting! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 2:59 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
Such a great reminder. Think of all the dog books out there … hasn’t every idea been done? And then along comes the cutest or funniest dog book ever! Thanks for the finetuning tips!
January 31, 2024 at 11:47 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hello dear friend! Yes – dog books – perennial and evergreen example of things that have been done, and redone even better! Do you have a favorite? I am still head-over-heels for RAGWEED’S FARM DOG HANDBOOK!
January 30, 2024 at 3:09 pm
KamillaM
Super helpful! Can’t wait to dive in
January 31, 2024 at 11:47 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Happy writing Kamilla!
January 30, 2024 at 3:22 pm
Wendy Greenley
A NF idea I’m writing showed up in PW Bookshelf sales this week so I REALLY needed this post. It’s especially hard when the book isn’t out so I don’t know which way to go with my twists (or if I need to twist at all). Thanks for the encouragement!
January 31, 2024 at 11:51 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Ugh Wendy – that stings! Has definitely happened to me, and sometimes I have to peek at PW bookshelf from behind my fingers! LOLA SHAPES THE SKY is one of my favorite cloud books!
January 30, 2024 at 3:29 pm
macsheperd
There are only 7 plots in the entire history of 47 trillion stories.
1. Overcoming The Monster
2. Rags To Riches
3. The Quest
4. Voyage & Return
5. Comedy
6. Tragedy
7. Rebirth.
Whoever said that never worked in kidlit.
Maybe it is true?
Just don’t tell that to Pete the Cat.
Do comedy or tragedy even count as a plot?
January 31, 2024 at 11:53 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
There are so many ways to slice and dice plot and story analysis Mac – I don’t know! I just try to write books that kids will like! Great comment!
January 30, 2024 at 3:41 pm
jennaejo
It’s so hard to have a new idea just to see that it isn’t “new!” Thanks for this post!
January 31, 2024 at 11:53 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are so welcome! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 3:57 pm
jasmithwriter
Thank you for the great tips!
January 31, 2024 at 11:53 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I hope they help a little! Happy Storystorming!
January 30, 2024 at 4:02 pm
Fiona Bannatyne
Oh it’s so annoying when that happens. Even more so when it’s an idea you’ve had for years and done nothing with, then someone else does it with virtually the same title and it wins awards and all sorts! (Yep, it still smarts… ) Maybe I will take inspiration from this and see if I can change my approach. Thank you.
January 31, 2024 at 11:54 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Yep, it stings! Hope these tips help you revisit and revise Fiona!
January 30, 2024 at 4:26 pm
Judy Bryan
Hate it when that happens! These are great tips for revising into something fresh and new!
January 31, 2024 at 11:54 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I am so glad you liked it Judy! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 5:40 pm
Janet Frenck Sheets
What stings the most is when some super-talented and well-known writer publishes something similar to a manuscript I’ve been querying. All I can do is tell myself, “Well, here’s proof that it was a good idea.” But it hurts.
January 31, 2024 at 11:56 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Yes it really stings Janet – especially when you’ve gotten that far along in the process. I hope these tips help a little even though it has happened to us all at some point!
January 30, 2024 at 5:48 pm
Melissa Killian Writing Portfolio
Always a good idea to look at something from a different perspective!
January 31, 2024 at 11:56 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I agree Melissa! Thanks for your comment!
January 30, 2024 at 5:58 pm
Tara Cerven
These are great tips and I’m going to apply them to my completed MSs as well! Thank you.
January 31, 2024 at 11:56 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Tara! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 6:21 pm
Sasha
Thanks Cathy! “What if…”: that’s where all ideas start. Now I need to go and find some s’mores.
January 31, 2024 at 11:57 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hooray – another s’mores fan! Happy Storystorming Sasha!
January 30, 2024 at 6:25 pm
stephaniemstories
Great tips!
January 31, 2024 at 11:57 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks Stephanie!
January 30, 2024 at 6:47 pm
jessicafgwrites
Great tips! Thanks!
January 31, 2024 at 11:57 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Jessica! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 6:47 pm
mnlfam
Thanks so much for your post! Sometimes my writings stay unnecessarily contained within the rules of the natural world. Your bonus tip reminded me of a book about a turtle who nonchalantly flew into the air, much to the surprise and delight of the reader (me). “Tudley Didn’t Know” by John Himmelman.
I already have an good idea about how to spice up a story with this tip.
January 31, 2024 at 11:59 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Ooh story spices – that’s a good framework for re-thinking and revising! Savory, sweet, salty – all good! Best of luck with your turtle idea!
January 30, 2024 at 6:55 pm
julicaveny
Cathy, thanks for these tips! Great things to consider (or reconsider)! -Juliann (Juli) Caveny
January 31, 2024 at 11:59 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Juli! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 6:57 pm
Darcee A Freier
I just read MAKE MORE S’MORES. What a fun rollicking rhyme. I love that the guests left a thank you note. Thanks for the idea to switch things up.
January 31, 2024 at 12:01 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
THANK YOU Darcee! I appreciate your kind words about Make More S’mores. My kids know I am a stickler for old-fashioned, handwritten thank you notes so I was excited to sneak it into a book! Happy Storystorming!
January 30, 2024 at 7:03 pm
Pam Barton
Great tips, thanks so much!
January 31, 2024 at 12:02 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Pam! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 7:06 pm
Carrie Tillotson
Cathy, thanks for the tips on finding a fresh take!
January 31, 2024 at 12:03 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Carrie! And I know you are a PRO at fresh takes because your BANANA books are tip top funny, original and unique! Cannot wait for those alpacas!
January 30, 2024 at 7:49 pm
joseyetta3dd08a42d6
Great Tips! Thanks, Cathy
January 31, 2024 at 12:04 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome! Happy Storystorming!
January 30, 2024 at 8:00 pm
staceygustafson
Thanks for the tips…Change the ‘rules’ of your story world or incorporate magical elements. What if bears could fly? What if snow was green? What if writing picture books was easy?
January 31, 2024 at 12:04 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I can’t wait to see a flying bear book someday! Thanks for reading!
January 30, 2024 at 8:13 pm
Lorraine
Make More Smores… that’s all I can think about now. Summer and smores! Can’t wait to read your book (and eat smores)!
January 31, 2024 at 12:05 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I hope your library has a copy waiting for you Lorraine! Thanks so much for your kind words!
January 30, 2024 at 8:19 pm
mattsthrockmorton
Loving all these strategies to spruce up some stagnant ideas. Thanks Cathy!
January 31, 2024 at 12:06 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Spruce and stagnant – those are great words Matt! Wishing you the best of luck with those ideas!
January 30, 2024 at 8:44 pm
Ali V. (they/them)
Wonderful suggestions – thank you
January 31, 2024 at 12:06 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Ali – happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 8:46 pm
ponder2write
Changing and mixing the elements of a picture book is something I need to do more of in my stories. Thank you.
January 31, 2024 at 12:07 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hope these tips help you a little! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 8:53 pm
Rick Starkey
I love your ideas for making changes to a story to make it different from similar works. Thanks for sharing these!
January 31, 2024 at 12:07 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Rick! Happy Storystorming!
January 30, 2024 at 9:06 pm
srkckass
Thanks for the great post and congratulations on a great book!
January 31, 2024 at 12:07 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thank YOU for your kind words! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 9:16 pm
Kelly A.
I have definitely had someone publish books with very similar ideas to mine and given up, but I love these suggestions to keep going!
January 31, 2024 at 12:08 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Sorry Kelly – that stings! I hope these tips help you revisit and revise!
January 30, 2024 at 9:33 pm
Melanie Ellsworth
Thanks, Cathy, for lots of ways to tinker with all the ideas we’ve generated! Setting intrigues me especially since it’s an area I don’t always consider enough.
January 31, 2024 at 12:11 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Hello friend! I added setting since it is something I struggle with as well but is such an interesting element to experiment with. Hip hip beret, er, hooray! for Storystorming!
January 30, 2024 at 9:43 pm
jenwritespbs
Yeah, can totally be a bummer when we see an idea has already been done, so this is very helpful! Thank you!
January 31, 2024 at 12:11 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome! Happy writing Jen!
January 30, 2024 at 9:44 pm
juliereich
I want to live in a world where writing picture books is easy…but then it might not be as much fun. Thanks for these ideas to put a twist on an already done idea.
January 31, 2024 at 12:12 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I hear you Julie! Maybe if we can’t live in that world we could at least visit once in a while?? Please? Happy Storystorming!
January 30, 2024 at 10:31 pm
mwinikates
Definitely have already run into the ‘my idea’s been done!’ more than once, and I love the mix-it-up list, I’m going to be writing that right into my journal so I can go back to it.
January 31, 2024 at 12:13 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I bet you have a great journal full of fun tips! Honored to be able to add a few!
January 30, 2024 at 11:15 pm
Abby Wooldridge
This post came at the perfect time! Thanks so much for sharing your five tips with us on how to fine tune ideas that have already been done. I will definitely put them into practice. Congratulations on your book. It looks adorable! 🙂
January 31, 2024 at 12:13 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thank you Abby, for your kind words. I hope your library has a copy that you can borrow! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 11:21 pm
amandashayne
Thank you for this. Your bonus tip in particular has me writing down ideas in a flurry 🙂 I’m looking forward to reading Make More Smores!!
January 31, 2024 at 12:14 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
A flurry of ideas is what Storystorm is all about! So happy you found some inspiration today! Thanks Amanda!
January 30, 2024 at 11:27 pm
gotoddgo3
It makes me think of writing PBs “fractured fairy tale” style. Thank you for this insight.
January 31, 2024 at 12:15 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I love fractured fairy tales too! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 11:32 pm
marthaej
This is definitely a concern I’ve had! Thanks Cathy for sharing so many ideas of how to make it unique!
January 31, 2024 at 12:15 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Martha! Happy writing!
January 30, 2024 at 11:56 pm
Gwendolyn Holbrow
Thank you, how did you know? 😀
January 31, 2024 at 12:15 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
LOL! How DID I know indeed? Happy Storystorming Gwendolyn!
January 31, 2024 at 12:23 am
Janet Smart
Hmm, thanks for the ideas. I need all the help I can get. It’s hard to come up with something that hasn’t already been written about.
January 31, 2024 at 12:16 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You can do it Janet! Hope these tips help a little!
January 31, 2024 at 1:28 am
Mary Beth Rice
Thank you!
January 31, 2024 at 12:16 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Mary Beth!
January 31, 2024 at 1:33 am
Judith Snyder
What great creative fun! I can try this with ideas I’ve already written down.
January 31, 2024 at 12:16 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Yes you can Judith! Happy Storystorming!
January 31, 2024 at 2:29 am
Tonnye Fletcher
Great tips! Just last week, a book was announced with the same title and same topic that was on one of my old StoryStorm lists. I’ll be excited to read it and see how I can use your suggestions to make it a viable idea again! Your S’Mores book looks so fun! Best wishes, and thanks for sharing!
January 31, 2024 at 12:21 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I like your enthusiasm for tracking down that just-announced book Tonnye! I do the same thing – keeping a list of books coming out in 2025, 2026 etc including your GREEN MAGIC!
January 31, 2024 at 3:05 am
Dionnie Takahashi
Love the brilliant tips!
January 31, 2024 at 12:21 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thanks Dionnie! Happy writing!
January 31, 2024 at 9:35 am
Jamie Bills
Thanks, Cathy! I’ve run into that situation before. Thanks for the tips. I recently checked your new S’mores book out from the library and it is so cute! Congratulations on another publication.
January 31, 2024 at 12:24 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Jamie! And thank YOU for your amazing Instagram book posts! I add so many exciting titles to my ever-growing library holds because you have featured them!
January 31, 2024 at 9:44 am
Heidi Chupp
Cathy, thanks so much for these practical tips! Definitely something to revisit again and again. 🙂
January 31, 2024 at 12:25 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Heidi! Happy writing!
January 31, 2024 at 10:02 am
AngelaLucilleLongo
Haha yes. What if writing picture books was easy? Thanks for the ideas. A flying bear is pretty unexpected.
January 31, 2024 at 12:25 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I can’t wait for a flying bear book someday! Ha ha! Thanks for your kind words!
January 31, 2024 at 10:30 am
mdk45
Cathy, this was so helpful. I have found five new ideas already. Thank you.
January 31, 2024 at 12:26 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
FIVE ideas – wow! You are amazing! Congratulations!
January 31, 2024 at 10:46 am
andreesantini
Yes, every idea has probably already been done in some way. I guess the trick is to spin it new. Thank you!
January 31, 2024 at 12:26 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome! Happy Storystorming!
January 31, 2024 at 11:13 am
Sondra Zalewski
Thanks for the tips! It’s always hard when you discover a competing story concept. I’ll be adding your books to my reading list!
January 31, 2024 at 12:27 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I appreciate that SO much Sondra! Happy writing!
January 31, 2024 at 11:18 am
Anita
Thank you!
January 31, 2024 at 12:27 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You are welcome Anita!
January 31, 2024 at 11:26 am
cindyjohnson2013
Great suggestions, Cathy! BTW, Make More S’mores looks wonderful!
January 31, 2024 at 12:27 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thank you Cindy! I hope your library has a copy of Make More S’mores that you can borrow!
January 31, 2024 at 11:54 am
jenngautam
its always a bit disappointing when you realize its already been done, but then its a challenge that forces you to be creative about it!
January 31, 2024 at 12:28 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
So true Jenn! We wouldn’t be writing picture books if we didn’t like creative challenges! Best of luck!
January 31, 2024 at 12:01 pm
kathydoherty1
Great advice! Thank you!…And I love s’mores.
January 31, 2024 at 12:33 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Ha ha – I know that you love s’mores Kathy! Your hysterically funny, clever DON’T FEED THE BEAR was one of the comp titles that I used for my story! Thanks so much for your comment!
January 31, 2024 at 12:19 pm
calliebdean
Yes! I’m always inspired by book pairings that tackle the same subject matter but have completely different angles or voices. It sounds like a cliche, but it’s true: no one else can write the same book as you!
January 31, 2024 at 12:34 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
You’ve got it Callie – 100%! Happy Storystorming!
January 31, 2024 at 1:10 pm
Susan Contreras
Thank you.
January 31, 2024 at 1:15 pm
CE King
What if writing picture books was easy?! HAHA 🙂 great way to end the post! Thanks for the great tips!
January 31, 2024 at 1:18 pm
Sylvia Mary Grech
I love the cover of your new book! So cute! Thanks for your post…gave me lots to think about.
January 31, 2024 at 2:10 pm
Adrea
Cathy — I love the thought that just because something has been done before, doesn’t mean it can’t be done again! You would think we would know this by looking at Hollywood (and all the versions of the Cinderella story, for example)!! Now that I think about it, what about a version of Cinderella where she….. 🙂
January 31, 2024 at 3:43 pm
slcoffey33
Cathy,
Thank you for a simple checklist that can bring new life to story ideas we’ve struggled with.
January 31, 2024 at 4:20 pm
Genevieve Gorback
These are great tips! Thank you so much!
January 31, 2024 at 4:24 pm
susaninez0905
Thanks for the great suggestions! 🙂
January 31, 2024 at 4:35 pm
laurakbower
Thank you Cathy! I was excited to spot Make More S’Mores and Sloth in a Pickle in my library! Congratulations on your books and thanks for the inspiration (and ideas) to keep going when we feel like we have hit a wall!
January 31, 2024 at 5:02 pm
annettepimentel
Thanks for the tips for dealing with the dreaded moment–I’ve been pre-empted!
January 31, 2024 at 5:06 pm
Amy Martinez
Thank you, Cathy! It is like you read my mind. I had that “punch in the gut” moment a few weeks ago when I saw my manuscript idea pop up on twitter as a book coming out this year. I felt sad, frustrated, and stuck, but your list of suggestions is just what I need. I think I am going to try to tell the story from another point of view and see how it goes. Who knows, maybe it will make the story even better.
Thanks!
January 31, 2024 at 5:22 pm
michelerietz
Thank you for this short, yet very helpful post! (I’m trying to catch up, so I really appreciate the brevity. 🙂
January 31, 2024 at 5:50 pm
Jane Baskwill
Thanks Cathy. It can be so disheartening to find your idea is not as unique as you thought. Your post provided a much needed pick-me-up!
January 31, 2024 at 6:03 pm
Barbara Farland
A great bulleted list of tips! Just the tool I need to take things up a notch.
January 31, 2024 at 6:11 pm
Marlena Leach
I have to stop putting off submitting my story thinking it isn’t good enough because sure enough someone else will get a similar story published. Has happened to me 3 times so far. Time to get serious and submit. Great post. Thank you, Cathy.
January 31, 2024 at 6:36 pm
Patricia Tiffany Morris
I love that you replay and interact with us in the comments, and seem enthusiastic about teaching. Thanks for your “change” ideas and all the best to you!!
January 31, 2024 at 6:39 pm
Marci Whitehurst
Your books look fantastic! Thanks for the tips to tune-up ideas.
January 31, 2024 at 7:40 pm
Jennifer Lu
Thanks for the spins!
January 31, 2024 at 7:46 pm
Jan Milusich
All great ideas! Thanks, Cathy!
January 31, 2024 at 7:46 pm
Pravin Kaipa
hi Cathy, thank you for your post, I needed this as I start to prune through all the ideas from this month!
January 31, 2024 at 8:54 pm
robinmeby
This is great advice, Cathy! I have some stories that need some tweaking. Thanks for the inspiration!
January 31, 2024 at 8:59 pm
Robin Keeler
Oh, yes, this has happened to me. Great tips for pursuing your idea in a new way. Thank you!
January 31, 2024 at 9:23 pm
Judy Sobanski
Thanks for the encouraging post. Your suggestions are a much better solution than just walking away from a story that is similar to one that’s been published.
January 31, 2024 at 9:34 pm
Andi Chitty
Great advice, there’s so often a different angle we can take! Thanks, Cathy!
January 31, 2024 at 10:07 pm
Janette Johnson Melson
I once read a book with an opening scene very similar to mine. I was so shocked I threw the book across the room! Luckily, I realized it was different enough from mine already that I only had to make minor changes. Thanks for the reminder.
January 31, 2024 at 10:25 pm
stacyallen
So true! But there’s always room for twists!
Thanks for the suggestions.
January 31, 2024 at 10:31 pm
Monica Acker
Cathy, great tips to adapt rather than throwing in the towel on the idea that is exciting to write.
January 31, 2024 at 10:53 pm
Christine Fleming McIsaac
These are great ways to give our ideas a twist. Thanks so much! And love you Make More S’Mores! ________________________________
January 31, 2024 at 11:08 pm
alamarre7571bc92b
What if….? Great!
January 31, 2024 at 11:28 pm
Cindy Greene
Thank you Cathy. Love this advice, and it’s a great list to challenge myself in all stories.
January 31, 2024 at 11:36 pm
kathleenplucker
Thanks for nudging me to change point of view. Forcing myself to see my current MC and the action from a few other perspectives can only strengthen my writing.
February 1, 2024 at 12:16 am
Lisa M. Horn
Thanks so much, Cathy! I loved your suggestions to tweak ideas that have already been done. There are so many more stories out there!
February 1, 2024 at 12:21 am
Rachel Rizzuto
Thank you, Cathy!
February 1, 2024 at 12:28 am
Olivia Fisher
Man, finding out your idea has already been done is definitely the fear, but I love your ideas on how to approach this!
February 1, 2024 at 12:44 am
Myrna Foster
Thanks for this great post, Cathy! Also, I absolutely love your PB title and cover!
February 1, 2024 at 12:59 am
sarahsteinbacher24
Great tips on how to make a ‘done’ story fresh!
February 1, 2024 at 1:30 am
loriclementwriter
Yep, I’ve been there, too. Thanks for the ideas on how to work past that initial disappointment and tendency to give up the idea.
February 1, 2024 at 1:51 am
amandalittleauthor
Love thinking about tuning writing like tuning the old boombox. LOL.
February 1, 2024 at 3:16 am
Angela Martinelli
Thank you Cathy! This has happened to me where I come up with an idea and then get disappointed that it’s already out there. Thanks for the tips on how to fine tune our ideas.
February 1, 2024 at 4:20 am
Nazanin Ford
Really appreciate the idea of changing the “rules”–so many things become possible. 🙂
February 1, 2024 at 8:46 am
Keeping the Me in Mommy
Totally have been there! Good tips on ways to pivot while still moving forward.
February 1, 2024 at 9:35 am
triciacandy
Great suggestions for getting me out of the box! Thank you!
February 1, 2024 at 11:03 am
Johanna Peyton
Love these suggestions – thank you.
February 1, 2024 at 12:59 pm
TerriMichels
Thank you for sharing these fine tuned ideas!
February 1, 2024 at 2:13 pm
topangamaria
Great cha-cha- changes to twist up an already done idea !!! (I’m hearing Bowie singing in my head)
February 1, 2024 at 3:33 pm
authorjanetparkinsonbryce
Thanks Cathy, I enjoyed these ideas. Especially the bonus tip. Asking yourself, what if, always sends my imagination on fast forward.
February 1, 2024 at 8:00 pm
michellehlosardo
Thank you for the suggestions on ways to adjust ideas.
February 1, 2024 at 8:45 pm
daydreambelievin
Thanks for helping us fine-tune our ideas!
February 1, 2024 at 10:19 pm
Jolene Ballard Gutiérrez
I love these suggestions for salvaging our ideas and fine-tuning our writing, Cathy!
February 1, 2024 at 11:36 pm
authorlaurablog
Wonderful ideas and I love looking at different POV. I’m adding the other ideas to my list. Thanks!
February 2, 2024 at 12:10 am
Susan Cabael
Playing around with ideas truly helps get to the true story that’s destined to be told.
February 2, 2024 at 8:21 am
midfreeman
I let out an audible groan when I was reminded of this feeling. Thank you for letting us feel a little less alone in this!
February 2, 2024 at 10:24 am
cherylmsimon
Thank you for this! It is so easy to get discouraged when you have a new idea and then find out that story exists. I love this fresh take!
February 2, 2024 at 10:48 am
Andrea Wickert
I love the idea of fine tuning to the right frequency of our ideas!
February 2, 2024 at 11:28 am
jessaroux
Love these ideas! I recently had this happen with a story, these suggestions will help me change my manuscript into something unique from the other I found!
February 2, 2024 at 2:51 pm
swwriter1
Thanks for the post!
February 2, 2024 at 4:18 pm
libbydemmon
“What if writing picture books was easy?” What an outlandishly crazy imagination you have.
February 2, 2024 at 8:18 pm
Jud Ward
Could I possibly get by with adding magic to nonfiction? Or, nonfiction to magic (oh my goodness what if bears really could fly? Why might snow be green?) Thanks for launching me into a bizarrely dangerous creative mode.
February 3, 2024 at 2:04 am
MadhuM
Thanks for the prompts to change things up!
February 3, 2024 at 9:02 am
yangmommy
Your post had me smiling & thinking about flipping the scripts; but not flipping writing desks since picture books are so easy 😀
February 3, 2024 at 9:29 am
louiseaamodt
You’re definitely right about the need to rethink our angles, rather than giving up, when “our” idea gets published by another person first!
February 3, 2024 at 2:23 pm
marcihersel
Such a great post! The many possibilities are exciting, thank you!
February 3, 2024 at 4:30 pm
Melissa Stoller
Hi Cathy – Thanks for a great post with helpful tips about switching directions when an idea is already out there! And I love your last “what if!” Congrats on ALL your books!
February 4, 2024 at 10:01 am
brintonculp
Thinking through the possibilities now! Thank you for the inspiration and ideas to change things up.
February 4, 2024 at 3:45 pm
chaunceyelephant
So many helpful suggestions – thank you!
February 4, 2024 at 5:27 pm
pescadita98
Thank you!
February 4, 2024 at 5:41 pm
michellesteinberg
Cathy, thanks for all the doable ways to change a story idea that’s already been done to make it unique.
February 4, 2024 at 7:58 pm
Jim Chaize
What a fun read, and with great tips. Thanks, Cathy.
February 5, 2024 at 6:50 pm
Bernadette E. Wallace
Well, here I am, waaay late and at the back of the line!
Thanks for this fun way to look at our stories!
Setting is so important, I like that you suggested Underwater!
February 5, 2024 at 9:52 pm
anakellyinla
Thank you for the practical suggestions, Cathy!
February 6, 2024 at 12:21 pm
Becky Goodman
Thank you! I’m really excited to change the style in a couple manuscripts and discover what happens.
February 6, 2024 at 5:49 pm
Melissa Hastings
Thank you for your fantastic tips!
February 6, 2024 at 8:50 pm
Nadine Poper
Looking forward to applying these strategies.
February 6, 2024 at 11:10 pm
denitajohnson
Thank you
February 7, 2024 at 7:22 pm
tinagraham103
I love the adjustment ideas, especially changing the ‘rules’ of the story world. Thank you for the great tips Cathy
February 8, 2024 at 3:50 am
sylviaichen
So helpful to try out, thank you!!