It’s that time of the year again!

Welcome to STORYSTORM 2026 Registration!

Nine years ago I changed the name and month of my annual writing challenge, from Picture Book Idea Month (PiBoIdMo) to STORYSTORM. Why? Answer’s here.

Although this challenge began as a picture book writer’s event, any writer interested in brainstorming new story ideas in January is invited to join the STORYSTORM challenge of 30 (or 31 or more) ideas in 31 days. Any genre, any style; student, amateur, hobbyist, aspiring author or seasoned professional.

How does STORYSTORM work? It’s simple…

  • Register (instructions below).
  • Read the daily posts right here on this blog, beginning January 1st.
  • Write down one (or more) story idea daily. (Do not share your ideas with anyone.)
  • At the end of January if you have at least 30 new ideas, you can sign the STORYSTORM PLEDGE and be eligible for PRIZES.

So are you ready?

To register, follow these steps:

  1. Register ON THIS BLOG POST by signing your name ONCE in the comments below (you must scroll all the way down, past previous comments for the comment box). Full name or nickname—whatever name you’ll use for the entire event. Please leave ONE comment ONLY. Do not reply to say “hi” to a friend. Do not comment to fix a mistake. ONE COMMENT. Don’t worry if it isn’t perfect. Registering makes you eligible for prizes. Teachers participating with a class can register under the teacher’s name.
  2. Visit this blog daily (taralazar.com, you’re already here) in January for inspirational essays by guest bloggers—authors, illustrators and publishing industry professionals.
  3. Instead of visiting the blog directly, you can receive the daily posts via email by entering your address and clicking the “Follow Tara’s Blog” button in the left column—look under my photo for it. (You must do this if you want to receive emails. Emails DO NOT come automatically by signing your name in the comments.)

At the end of January, if you have at least 30 ideas, sign the STORYSTORM PLEDGE (to be posted on January 31) and qualify for prizes. Prizes include agent feedback, signed books, original art, writerly gadgets and gizmos.

Remember, do not share your ideas publicly in January. They are YOURS. No need to prove that you have them at the end of the month. The pledge you will sign is on the honor system.

Are you in? Awesome!

Other OPTIONAL activities:

  • You can pick up the “Official Participant” badge (with art by Courtney Pippin-Mathur) below and affix it to any social media account or personal website you wish. (Right click to save to your computer, then upload it anywhere.)

  • You can also opt to join the STORYSTORM discussion group, this year on Discord. (Which I am still figuring out, so join and please be patient and kind!) Everyone needs writing friends!

STORYSTORM registration will remain open through JANUARY 7th.

In the meantime, head over to the STORYSTORM ZAZZLE SHOP to pick up your official journal. All proceeds from sales will be donated to Highlights Foundation. I’ll be adding more items, like mugs and t-shirts, throughout the month.

Thank you for joining!

I wish you a creative and prolific month ahead!