CRITIQUE GROUPS

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I love my critique group and feel very fortunate to belong in it. It’s composed of a group of writers from my SCBWI region, some published, some not-yet-published (but definitely will be). We’re an online group, because our region is vast and we live too far apart to meet in person on a regular basis. There are six of us, and each person brings something unique and special to the group, not only with her writing, but with her personality as well. I think what find most valuable though, from my critique group, is that they’re supportive in all the right ways. And I believe that any good critique group does the same.

A good critique group knows when to be honest with each other, to have the courage to say when something isn’t working in a story (isn’t that what having a pair of fresh eyes is all about?). Honest, thoughtful suggestions are what help to move one’s work forward. Blind, superficial praise does nothing to improve writing (although it might make the recipient feel good—but feeling good isn’t going to get your work published).

A good critique group also knows when to give each other a kick in the pants, on occasion. Members will look out for each other and not feel threatened by each other. Mutual respect is felt amongst the group along with a sense of helping each other toward their writing goals.

I have a friend who once belonged to a critique group and after every meeting, she would complain to me about them. She commented that they were either mean-spirited in their comments, or would blindly praise each other’s work—meaning, there was never any constructive criticism offered (“If I want to feel good about myself, I’ll let my husband read my work and tell me how brilliant I am.”) When she finally felt comfortable enough with the group to make suggestions for improvement on someone’s story, she was shut down. One person even told her that her suggestions were stupid.

My response? “That group is poisonous. Get out!” A critique group experience should leave you feeling hopeful, and anxious to dive into making improvements. You should feel a bit enlightened (“Hmm, I never thought of it that way!”). Your mind should be spinning with the excitement of digging into work, not like it’s been thrown into a ditch and there’s no way to climb out—whether you’re doing the critiquing or being critiqued.

So, what’s my point? Critiquer beware. Critique groups can be a valuable part of your writing experience, but enter with caution. Make sure that they’re helping you to improve your writing. And if not, politely “exit stage left” and move on. Maybe try a different group or maybe decide that critique groups aren’t right for you. The important thing is to find out what works for you.

Note: Check your local SCBWI chapter to see if they have a critique group coordinator to help you find a group in your area.

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MY KIND OF REJECTION

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Let’s face it—nobody likes receiving a rejection letter. Yes, there are things we can learn from them, but the bottom line is that a rejection is still a rejection. No sale. Nada. Zip. But once in a great while, a rejection letter makes me laugh—like the one I received today.

I sent the manuscript for The Blackberry Bush to a publisher (who shall remain anonymous) in August of 2005. Yes folks, that’s right. August of 2-0-0-5. Today, June 9, 2-0-0-7, I received a rejection letter on the story. Now, normally this would have really ticked me off (even though I’d have given up on said publisher long ago). But since The Blackberry Bush is now under production as Blackberry Banquet with the ever-insightful Sylvan Dell Publishing, I could laugh at this latest rejection letter.

So take heart–not all rejections will bring a howling cry of frustration. Sometimes they bring a howl of laughter–at the glacial speed of this business, or at the delight in knowing that someone else “discovered” your story while others missed that golden opportunity. It’s a crazy business we live in, isn’t it?

FRIDAY FUNNIES: Recipe with a Laugh

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What’s a sailor’s favorite snack?
Chocolate ship cookies!
(from Greatest Goofiest Jokes, Sterling Publishing)

And what’s an author’s favorite food group? Chocolate, of course (do I really need to ask?).

Therefore, for the pleasure of sailors and authors everywhere (or sailors who write and writers who sail), here is one of my favorite chocolate chip cookie recipes.

Chocolate Chip Malt Cookies

1 c. butter flavored shortening
1 ¼ c. light brown sugar
½ c. malted milk powder
2 tbsp. chocolate syrup
1 tbsp. Vanilla extract
1 egg
2 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
½ tsp. salt
1 ½ c. semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 c. milk chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 375. Combine shortening, sugar, malt, chocolate syrup and vanilla; beat for 2 minutes. Add egg. Combine flour, baking soda and salt’ gradually add to creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition. Stir in chocolate chips. Shape into 2” balls and place 3” apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at for 12-14 minutes. Cool 2 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool.

And remember, calories don’t count—unless they’re in math class.

Blackberry Banquet Update

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I found out yesterday that the publication date for Blackberry Banquet is August 2008 (not spring 2008, as noted earlier).

The good news is that Book Expo America will be in Los Angeles next year (May 29-June 1), so (hopefully) I’ll be there to sign advanced copies.

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BLACKBERRY BANQUET: The Birth of a Cover

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I was tickled purple when Donna German (at Sylvan Dell) sent me Lisa Downey’s rough illustration of the cover for Blackberry Banquet (see more of Lisa’s work here).

Here I go, like a new mom showing off her baby, but really…isn’t it adorable? I’m so pleased with the design and can envision the colors popping out and grabbing the attention of children. I can’t wait to see the finished piece!

I have a profound respect for picture book illustrators—they really are the ones who I put on a pedestal, in this business. Why? Because unlike fine artists (not to knock fine artists—I like Van Gogh just as much as the next girl), they have to bring the illustrations to life in order to create an entire story. They breathe life into the text. They don’t just paint a child or an animal; they show the movement, actions, and emotions of the characters. And they do it for thirty-two pages! Simply amazing, in my opinion.

Many people don’t realize that writers don’t get to choose their illustrators. Editors and/or art directors make that decision (good thing too—they know far more illustrators and have a tremendous understanding of what makes a good picture book). But this is a hard concept for some writers to get used to—letting go and trusting someone else to take “your baby” (especially if it’s your firstborn). Trusting that your editor will find an illustrator who will connect with your words, while also putting their own spin on them. Someone who will create pictures that will intertwine with your words to create a beautiful dance on the page. This is whom we want our editors to choose. And they do. But first, we must trust.

One of the things I’ve feared was seeing the artwork for one of my books for the first time, and not liking it. Well, it hasn’t happened yet. And every time I have to let go of one of my stories, I just tell myself, “Trust your editor. She will choose wisely.” It’s my mantra.

After all, she wants to create a beautiful book that will beg children to read it. And to keep it real, yes, sell books. Many, many books (it is a business, after all). And a book with the perfect balance of words and art will touch more children and sell many more copies than one that doesn’t. So, when the time comes to “let go,” take a deep breath and remind yourself, “Trust your editor. Trust your illustrator.”

GREAT WEBSITES: The Purple Crayon

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Occasionally, I like to mention great websites and blogs that I enjoy reading, which leads to Harold Underdown’s website (including his blog), The Purple Crayon. This website is so full of information that it’ll make your head whirl. You’ll find articles on all aspects of children’s writing and publishing. And what’s really great about it is that Harold is such a nice fellow. I had the pleasure of meeting him at an SCBWI summer conference one year (for more details on this year’s conference, click here).

Harold Underdown has been on the editorial side of the business for many years and is the author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Publishing Children’s Books. He is warm, friendly and takes time to respond to questions or comments. He’s just one of those “all-around nice guys”–and it’s reflected in his website.

He recently posted a fascinating article on the Acquisition Process, which clearly explains WHY it takes so long for most editors to respond to our submissions. If you find yourself tapping your foot or feeling forgotten, read the article and you’ll feel better–or at least you’ll understand why you aren’t getting that snappy response you’d hoped for.

Happy reading!

FRIDAY FUNNIES: Five Things That Make Me Laugh

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Have you ever watched someone who’s so tickled at something that they can’t stop laughing, then that gets you laughing so hard that you can’t stop either? There’s nothing like a good belly laugh, is there?

Well golly, when Greg Pincus tagged me this week with “8 Things Meme” it got me to thinking that this could be even more fun with a twist of humor. So, I’m starting my own game of “blog tag,” called “Five Things That Always Make You Laugh.” Here are the rules (following the Meme format)—you have to list five things that make you laugh, on your own blog (it could be anything—even specific jokes). At the end of your list, you then “tag” three or more other friends on their blogs, leaving a comment on their blog and challenging them to join in the laugh fest.

Here is my list of things that never fail to make me laugh:

1. My husband’s impression of Chubby Checker singing, “The Twist.”

2. Listening to a five-year-old tell a joke.
3. The “vitameatavegamin” episode of I Love Lucy.
4. My son’s impression of Forrest Gump.
5. Comedian Bill Engvall doing any bit on family life.

Okay, now it’s my turn to payback Gregory K., so he’ll be my first choice. Next, will be my writer friend Barbara Beitz, and last but not least, the ever-cheery Tina Nichols Coury, who may need to expand beyond just five things…

Laugh on!

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Tag—I’m It!

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I’d never heard of “8 Things Meme” until this morning, when Gregory K. swept me into the game (oh, the things people will do to play on the internet!). Here are the rules:

Each player lists 8 facts/habits about themselves. The rules of the game are posted at the beginning before those facts/habits are listed. At the end of the post, the player then tags 8 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog.

So, for all of you who are just dying to learn some tidbit factoid about me (and I know there are tens, perhaps teens of you), here you go:

1. I’ve hiked from Yosemite National Park to Mt. Whitney in one trip (5 weeks), and of course, kept a daily journal.

2. I once knocked out a 2nd Degree Black Belt at a Women’s Self-Defense Seminar (this was before I took any TKD lessons).

3. I hate math. Just seeing math problems makes my stomach “go acrobatic.”

4. I kiss cats (but not stranger cats, just those in my family).

5. Dinosaurs fascinate me.

6. I have a stuffed monkey who screams and whoops when I squeeze his paw. I only squeeze it when I get a contract offer. He’s a good luck charm from my husband.

7. My favorite time of day to write is between 5:00 AM to 6:00 AM, in my dimly lit office, with a cup of hot coffee in front of me and my cats snoozing away nearby.

8. I can cook one mean Thanksgiving dinner. Rachael Ray, watch out!

Okay, here’s the hard part–hmm…which friends do I want to list? I hate doing these kinds of things, which is why you should never send me a chain letter (another fact to know about me). Let’s tag (see how I made it plural, incorporating readers into it, like it’s beyond my control), Robin and Mary at Shrinking Violets Promotion, and of course, Greg Trine (AKA, Melvin Beederman), and Kristen Kofsky (who just recently started her blog–welcome, Kristen!). That’s only four, but oh well!

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A Blackberry Bush By Any Other Name

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One of the reasons I started this blog was because in January I sold a picture book manuscript, The Blackberry Bush, to Sylvan Dell Publishing. I thought it would be interesting to journal, via a blog, what will happen AFTER I sell a story. So today I’m going to give an update of what’s happening with my manuscript (and I apologize for putting all of this in one post–I should have been doing this all along).

In March, Donna German (my terrific editor at SD), emailed me that they had chosen an illustrator for the book. Her name is Lisa Downey, the illustrator of Happy Birthday to Whooo? I’m quite excited about Lisa doing the illustrations, as her animal paintings are just lovely and should be a perfect match for the story.

In April, while reading the story aloud to a friend, I found a spot where my tongue caught in my mouth. I found this odd, considering that I always read my picture books mss aloud many times to check for flow and fluency. I put the ms away for a week or so, and read it aloud again, and once more my tongue tripped. I emailed Donna with a single word change and she made the change for me. Phew! Can’t have readers tripping over words now, can we?

Sometime around March, Donna had asked me for some possible titles with a bit more “umph” than The Blackberry Bush. With the brainstorming help of my fabulously creative critique group, I was able to give her quite a few choices, including my personal favorite, “Drinking the Blackberry Vine” (ha-ha, silly me had to throw that one Donna’s way, just for a laugh). Last week, I heard that the final title and pub-date have been determined. Drumroll, please……………

Blackberry Banquet! Spring 2008.

So, that’s where we stand, four months into the project. Lisa is busy working on the illustrations, we have a title and pub-date, and this summer I’m going to start laying some groundwork for setting up possible book signings in the Pacific Northwest (home to a kazillion blackberry bushes). This translates into going to bookstores, introducing myself to the owners and telling them about my upcoming book. Wish me luck!

That’s all folks! Stay tuned for more feasting to come…

Hats Off to Teachers

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Authors receive many letters from students—there’s nothing new about that. We love hearing from kids. They are, after all, who we write for.

What I like about the following letters is that both students talked about their teacher, Ms. Lowry. Perhaps because this took me back to my former grade school teachers whose influence still resonates in me today. I’ll always remember Mrs. Barnes, who invited students to her home over summer vacation, so she could finish reading a novel she’d begun at the end of the school year. Or my fifth grade teacher who taught us simple conversational Russian, during the time of the cold war, when the USSR was considered “the enemy.” She modeled respect for other cultures by exposing us to the language and the people (wow–what a great lesson to learn!).

Teachers are some of my most favorite people, and there are many excellent ones out there—influencing our children for the moment and for the future, laying the groundwork for their lives with care, creativity, dedication and countless hours beyond what their contract dictates.

Many teachers are now counting—not as in counting with their students, but counting the days til summer vacation. It’s almost upon us and I hope all teachers enjoy a well-earned break. It’s their time to rev up, recharge and recreate!

Here are a couple more letters I received from students:

Dear Ms. Pierce,

Hello, my name is *** ***. I’m in Ms. Lowry’s class. I think she is one of the best teacher’s ever. Every day is different with Ms. Lowry. She can talk in five different languages. What you will like the most about Sequoia is the staff.

What I like about TWO TALES OF HAWAII is that you didn’t exaggerate at all. I also liked GOOFY KNOCK-KNOCK JOKES. I liked it because all the jokes are funny. Next, I liked [PET] JOKES THAT WILL MAKE YOU HOWL because they’re jokes about pets. Finally, I think that you are going to have fun with the staff.

Your friend,
*** ***

Dear Ms. Pierce,

I just want to welcome you to Sequoia School. I think you’ll like Sequoia because it is different from other schools. My name is **** ****. I’m a fifth grader in Ms. Lowry’s class. It is fun in this class. Ms. Lowry read your stories to us. My favorite story was Two Tales of Hawaii because I learned a lot from it. I can’t wait til you come to my school.

Sincerely,
**** **** ♥