 Rising Stars in KidLit began as a way to highlight my fellow kidlit creators who are working their tails off to birth their beautiful book babies into the world. These interviews cast a light on the wonderful work of pre-published or pre-agented authors and author-illustrators who are destined to be stars! Today we’re hosting another Spotlight series with author, John Bray, so we can learn all about his path to publication! John has also offered to giveaway a signed copy of THE END plus a bonus activity book to one lucky winner! Make sure to read all the way to THE END (haha!) of the interview for details on how to enter the giveaway. Thanks for your generosity, John! Meet Rising Star Author John Bray!  Photo Credit John Bray © 2022 John Bray is an author of books for children and an assortment of other things. He also won a bookmark design contest in second grade. He lives in St. Charles, IL with his son and a rambunctious dog who’s the size of a modest cat. His debut picture book, THE END, illustrated by Josh Cleland releases later this month with Starry Forest Books. John is currently seeking agent representation. Welcome, John and congrats on your upcoming release, THE END! I'm thrilled to have you here to celebrate your debut and chat about your journey! Thank you so much for your generous giveaway, too! Make sure to enter for your chance to win a signed copy of THE END plus a bonus activity book! Details on how to enter at the bottom of the interview. AD: First off, congrats on your debut picture book, THE END, which releases this month with Starry Forest Books. Can you share a bit more about this delightful story? JB: THE END is a slightly meta story about endings, beginnings, and the space between the two. It’s also sort of a mashup between Semisonic’s “Closing Time” (a late 90s classic) and "Little Gidding" by T.S. Eliot (modernist poet and author of everyone's favorite "Prufrock"). More than anything, it's a different, humorous perspective on endings, and I think that's something we could all use from time to time. AD: Yes! What a perfect description! I love how it got me thinking about endings in a whole new light and reminded me that endings are just the beginning of something else with lots of exciting stuff happening in between! Artist, Josh Cleland, perfectly capture the fun and humor in the story, too!  John's debut children's book THE END, illustrated by Josh Cleland, recently released with Starry Forest Books. Let’s start with a speed round…
Okay, now down to the serious stuff…. AD: Please dish us the dirt on who you are and your journey into the fabulous world of children’s books. JB: So much dirt to dish. I’ll give the truncated version. I found my way to children’s books by way of the Young Author’s program in third grade (my book: The ABCs of Origami). That sparked my love for writing, and I’ve been writing ever since. However, between then and now, there was college, a job in marketing that I did not enjoy at all, working as a freelance writer (which I still do and enjoy), raising a son (also still in process), and a slew of other things. But children’s books were always there, either taking shape on the page or in my head. AD: Did you always know you wanted to be an author? Have you explored other paths or had/have other jobs? JB: Yes. But no. I originally went to college with a law focus (English, Pre-law). A series of big life events (so many of them) led me away from that path. In hindsight, it was the best thing that could have happened. I’d make a terrible lawyer. But my filing would be impeccable. AD: Funny how we find our way back to our true passions. :)  John's furry officemate, Lily, taking a snooze. © 2022 John Bray AD: What topics or themes do you tend to focus on in your writing? Favorite genres you like to write in? JB: This is such a difficult question. I think I gravitate toward making the intangible more tangible, but that’s not necessarily a focus. More than anything, I like the idea of telling a story kids want to get lost in in only 32 pages. Something fun. AD: Breaking into the publishing industry is not easy! What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced thus far? What have you done to persevere? JB: The hardest thing was just putting myself out there. Spending time and energy to create a story I believe in only to have it rejected over and over again. AD: Yes! Being vulnerable as a creator is one of the hardest parts and as creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well. With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing journey? JB: Editing! I’m a notorious over-writer. Always wordy (which probably comes through in some of these answers). But I’m slowly becoming much better at cutting. Ruthlessly cutting. It’s a lot easier to say “kill your darlings” than it is to actually kill them. AD: I completely relate!  John's writing desk. © 2022 John Bray AD: In a similar vein, what do you feel are your strengths as an author? What makes your writing unique to you? JB: I spend a lot of time focusing not just on the story or the words I use to tell it, but on how those words feel when you say them. How they clump together and flow, either out loud or in your own head. That doesn’t mean unnecessarily big words or onomatopoeias. It’s mostly about how the words fit together. Their relationship and rhythm. I think the experience of reading (or hearing) a book should be as exciting and engaging as the story itself. AD: Yes, the feeling of the words is so important as is reading the story out loud so you can get a sense of this. Thanks for the reminder! AD: What inspires your work? JB: Anything and everything. Usually it’s something fairly random (odd sayings, quirky word combinations, or, as with THE END, song lyrics). And then the other part of that inspiration is time. Letting that little piece of something sit and grow before I try to write my way into a story. It doesn’t always work, but I always learn something along the way. AD: Tell us about your creative process and what you do to keep ideas flowing or what you do when feeling stuck? JB: Running is a big help. When I have nothing to think about but putting one foot in front of the other, it clears my head and makes room for new ideas. I also run in the early morning when it’s quiet, and I think that adds to the experience. But sometimes, you just get stuck and you have to redirect that creative energy. For me, that means baking or drawing or helping my son (who is very mechanically minded and not at all interested in writing so much as a single sentence) solve a problem with one of his many projects. AD: Having a clear mind is so important for creativity and inspiration. Glad you have your outlet with running. Double win that it's a healthy way to clear the mind as well!  View from one of John's morning runs. © 2022 John Bray AD: What sorts of things have been most integral in your growth as an author? JB: Three things: 1) An almost daily practice for 15-20 years. 2) My friend Sue (a 10-year friendship and one of the best things to come out of Twitter), who always helps me get out of my own head so I can move forward with my writing. 3) Parents who supported creativity and the arts as much as they supported math and science. There was no “that doesn’t sound like a financially safe career path” in my house growing up. But, in all honesty, I’ve been surrounded by supportive people from just about every angle, and I’m beyond grateful for their encouragement and belief in me and my work over the years. AD: A support system is huge! It can be a roller coaster so having people who are there for the ride can keep us moving forward and motivated. AD: What advice do you have for fellow kidlit creatives? JB: Just. Stick. With it. If you have a story to tell — in pictures, words, or both — keep at it. Children want stories. They need them. It’s not an easy or fast road for most people (me included!) but if it’s something you’re passionate about, keep at it and remember that rejections aren’t personal. AD: Right on! I remember a quote (I forget who said it) but it was something along the lines of-the only way you won't succeed is if you give up. I wholeheartedly believe that. Anything is possible if you just stick with it! Alright and finally, where can readers find out more about you and your work? Website: johnbraybooks.com Twitter: @jhnrbry Instagram: @jhnrbry John, thank you so much for joining us for this special Spotlight feature on Rising Stars in KidLit! Congrats again on your debut, THE END. Join John's newsletter HERE to keep up with book news, events, and snag a free book and feel free to drop a comment below to support John and his work. Be sure to also subscribe to the Rising Stars series so you don't miss out on the next Rising Stars in Kidlit feature and follow along on Twitter at #RisingStarsinKidlit! Speaking of snagging a free book.....  Win a signed copy of THE END plus a bonus activity book!! TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY: ✅ Follow John & Amanda on Twitter ✅ Retweet this post on Twitter ✅ Tag 3 friends in the comments on Twitter A random winner will be selected to receive a signed copy of THE END plus a bonus activity book! The deadline for this contest is Tuesday, September 13th at 9AM EST. The winner will be contacted on Tuesday, September 13th and announced on Twitter. 
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 Rising Stars in KidLit began as a way to highlight my fellow kidlit creators who are working their tails off to birth their beautiful book babies into the world. These interviews cast a light on the wonderful work of pre-published or pre-agented authors and author-illustrators who are destined to be stars! Today we’re hosting a special Spotlight series with author-illustrator, Rebekah Lowell so we can learn all about her path to publication! Rebekah has also offered to giveaway a signed copy of THE ROAD TO AFTER and some book swag to one lucky winner! Make sure to read all the way to the end of the interview for details on how to enter the giveaway. Thanks, Rebekah, yay! Meet Rising Star Author-Illustrator Rebekah Lowell!  Photo Credit © Elektrah Lowell Rebekah Lowell is an author/illustrator, and surface pattern designer with a passion for the natural world. As a survivor of domestic abuse, she’s found the natural world to be a peaceful healing ground. Her debut novel in verse, THE ROAD TO AFTER, published with Nancy Paulsen Books/Penguin Random House on May 10, 2022, and her debut picture book CATCHING FLIGHT, publishes with Doubleday Books for Young Readers in spring 2023. When not in her studio, you can find her outside—birding, gardening, nature journaling, rescuing birds for Avian Haven, and raising butterflies – often with her daughters, who she homeschools. Rebekah has a BFA in Illustration from the Rhode Island School of Design and an MFA in Children’s Literature and Illustration from Hollins University. Her artwork has been featured on the Maine Duck Stamp five times and she is also an art educator. She lives with her family in her hometown of Biddeford, Maine. Welcome, Rebekah and congrats on your new release, THE ROAD TO AFTER and your forthcoming title, CATCHING FLIGHT! Rebekah and I met several years back when we were both diving into the wonderful world of children's books so I'm thrilled to have her here to celebrate her successes and chat about her journey! Thank you so much, Rebekah, for your generous giveaway, too! Make sure to enter for your chance to win a signed copy of THE ROAD TO AFTER and book swag! Details on how to enter at the bottom of the interview. AD: Let’s start with a speed round…
AD: Okay, now down to the serious stuff…Please dish us the dirt on who you are and your journey into the fabulous world of children’s books. RL: When I was a senior at The Rhode Island School of Design, I took a class called “Picture and Word.” It was taught by Judy-Sue Goodwin-Sturges and Rebecca Bond. I fell in love with the art form that is the picture book; how words danced with images but didn’t repeat them. I fell in love with writing all over again. I used to write so much as a child, then as an adult, I journaled and took poetry classes while I was at RISD. My creative heart soaked it all in. I always knew I would be an artist, but during that class, I knew I wanted to write and illustrate for children. Just before graduation however, my plans came to a halt as I found myself trapped in an abusive relationship. Professors saw it. Peers saw it, but I didn’t know how to get out of it. It was too much to understand, let alone break free of. I started doubting myself and the abuse took an even stronger hold on my life. Before I knew it, I lost myself completely. Ten years later, I finally escaped. After becoming settled in a safe place, I went back to school at Hollins University and pursued my dream of writing and illustrating for children by earning my dual MFA in Children’s Literature and Illustration. I read A LOT. I learned A LOT. I created A LOT. Wrote and illustrated my novel in verse. (More on this HERE) Wrote and illustrated picture books and pulled a portfolio of work together. I brought my portfolio and projects to Big Sur Cape Cod in the fall of 2017 and workshopped them. In 2018 I brought my illustration portfolio and a picture book dummy to NESCBWI and met with Wendi Gu of Janklow & Nesbit Associates. She offered rep, so I let other agents I had submitted to know, and I ended up receiving other offers that week as well, but ultimately accepted Wendi’s offer. (More on signing with Wendi HERE) Wendi and I went out on submission with my middle grade novel in verse first and it sold less than a year after working together. (This book is now out with Nancy Paulsen Books as THE ROAD TO AFTER.) Shortly after sending that book on submission, my novel in verse (not yet sold) won the Susan P. Bloom Award. Within the week, I received multiple offers, one of which was from Nancy Paulsen! Signing the contract on my first book deal was a momentous event for me. So many emotions welled up and it felt like this career was going to work out after all.  Rebekah's debut MG novel in verse, THE ROAD TO AFTER, is out now with Nancy Paulsen Books! Photo Credit © Rebekah Lowell At the end of 2020, my first agent and I parted ways, and by January of 2021 I signed with Paige Terlip of Andrea Brown Literary Agency. This was a full circle celebration for me because back in 2014 I met Andrea Brown herself at Hollins and had loved and admired ABLA ever since. I’m so grateful to be at this amazing agency. Just before signing with Paige, I tweeted an illustration that caught the attention of editor Frances Gilbert of Doubleday Books for Young Readers and she asked if I had a picture book that went with it. I had, but it was nonfiction, and she had previously declined (because she doesn’t pub a lot of nonfiction), so I told her I would come up with something for her, and I did, and I sent her a picture of the poem I wrote in my notebook. She asked me to type it up and send it to her, so I did. After signing with Paige, we sold that picture book, now called CATCHING FLIGHT, and it will publish with Doubleday Books for Young Readers in March of 2023. Text revisions are done, interior art is done, and at the time of this post, I’m working on the cover art! What’s next: Other picture books and another novel on sub. Other picture books and a third novel in the works. AD: Wow! You've had quite the journey, Rebekah. It seems like at the heart of it all was finding the strength to never give up and follow your dreams. I'm so glad you persevered and now others will have the opportunity to learn from your writing and art and be inspired to follow their own dreams. It also seems that art and writing have always been a passion of yours. Is that the case? Did you always know you wanted to be an author-illustrator? Have you explored other paths or had/have other jobs? RL: I had considered psychology, art therapy, horticulture, and botany. As a very young child I thought I wanted to be an apothecary or a singer. But all of this was always in addition to being an artist. I always wanted to be an artist. I could draw before I could walk, which I know happens for others too, but I drew A LOT. I painted in oils when I was seven. I sold my first paintings before I was 10 and won my first show ribbon at 14. I’ve always painted and always will. AD: That's impressive that you sold your first work so young!! :) What topics or themes do you tend to focus on in your writing/art? Favorite genres you like to write in or favorite art materials/techniques? RL: Nature, always. Resiliency, determination, hope. Nature as healer. Middle grade novels in verse. Picture books, also in verse. I guess I’m a poet. I’m a painter and a poet. For picture books, I love working in water-based traditional media like watercolor, gouache, acrylagouache, colored pencils, gel pens, and more. For middle grade, the interior work usually needs to be in grayscale, so there are limitations on materials, but I embrace this. I love using graphite dust and Blackwing pencils on vellum for a rich, layered feeling (a technique I learned from Brian Lies) but I also love painting with black ink. AD: I took a workshop with Brian Lies at one of the NESCBWI conferences, and we practiced the graphite dust technique. It was so much fun. I LOVE how the interiors of THE ROAD TO AFTER turned out. That was a perfect style and material for the story. Themes of nature tend to show up in my work as well. It's always been a constant and there is so much we can learn from it. I love how nature is so evident in all the work you do, from illustrations, to fine art, to surface patterns, you can tell that it's a meaningful part of your life and work.  Rebekah's favorite drawing tools! Photo Credit © Rebekah Lowell  Grayscale interior from THE ROAD TO AFTER. Photo Credit © Rebekah Lowell AD: Breaking into the publishing industry is not easy! What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced thus far? What have you done to persevere? RL: A few things: Keeping hope alive when I was told (by an abusive person) that I would never be published. Over the course of receiving many rejections, I learned how to be thankful for them. Even though a “no” can be disappointing, and it can feel like the sky will never part when you’ve been submitting for years, you wouldn’t want to partner with an editor or agent who isn’t right for your work. Consider feedback, if any, provided with a decline, but only apply it if it resonates with you. I learned to appreciate rejection because I once heard somewhere that “Rejection points you in the right direction.” I fully believe it. I have also celebrated the milestones, big and small. I have fun. I stash chocolate in my studio and will find any excuse to bring my daughters out for ice cream. (Not that I need one, but I do love celebrating all the things.) AD: I love that saying. It's so true! Sometimes it's easy to get lost in all the rejections and as creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well. With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing/illustration journey? RL: Not giving up. Going after it even when I was at my lowest, just having left and still not sure of my footing. Having the belief that one day being published would happen, while I was at my darkest time not even permitted to leave the house. I just kept thinking toward the day, hoping, only the tiniest hope, that it would happen. I read the few books we had to my daughters, over and over, imagining that one day they would be able to hold one made by their mom. Now they can. AD: YES! How special! I remember I heard someone once say, the only way you won't succeed is if you give up. You never gave up and remained hopeful. We have to look for the bright spots in order to keep us forging ahead. In a similar vein, what do you feel are your strengths as an author/illustrator? What makes your art/writing unique to you? RL: I think I have a story to tell and it’s going to be told over a string of books. Each one, though different will relate to the other to tell a smaller part of a greater whole. The narrative will be all of my projects combined. One book will speak of nature as healer and how to start over (THE ROAD TO AFTER), another book will talk about freedom on the wings of birds (CATCHING FLIGHT), the next are to be determined, but I love the idea that each project will be a different facet of the same stone. AD: What inspires your work? RL: Nature and our human connection to nature; how we interact with the wild spaces around us and what we do to serve the natural world and how it serves us back.  Nature is Rebekah's safe space and inspiration. Photo Credit © Rebekah Lowell AD: Tell us about your creative process and what you do to keep ideas flowing or what you do when feeling stuck? RL: My creative process isn’t much of a literal process. This might be rather disappointing, but I don’t have the opportunity to plan out the perfect workday because I’m also a homeschooling mom, housekeeper, part-time children’s librarian, volunteer bird-rescuer, and because my life is different each day, I don’t have a set routine. I find pockets of time where I can work, and I often bring work to appointments, waiting rooms, and trips. This often leaves me feeling like I work all the time and I’m left wondering what it would be like to have business hours. I struggle with work/life balance. I don’t believe in “inspiration striking” but I am always thinking, and sometimes ideas do come at the oddest times, and I always have a notebook to jot down in. I also use shower notes, and can’t stand doing nothing, so I’m always prepared. For better or for worse, I’m always working on something. I do, however, enjoy winding down by gardening, raising butterflies, taking hot baths, and long walks. It’s my nature to keep busy, but I’m also trying to do better with down time for mental and physical health. It’s a goal, but a work-in-progress like anything. To keep ideas flowing: that is not an issue for me. The issue would be how to make them stop. What do I do when I feel stuck? I go outside and look around, look up, look down. I find wonder. AD: Thank you for your honesty. Work/life balance is such a challenge! It's refreshing to hear that sometimes you just have to fit things in where you can and find pockets of time that work for you. I think most of us can relate to that and feel better knowing we're not alone in that struggle. A work-in-progress, for sure! Speaking of works-in-progress, what sorts of things have been most integral in your growth as an author-illustrator? RL:
 A sneak peek of Rebekah's work space! Photo Credit © Rebekah Lowell AD: What advice do you have for fellow kidlit creatives? RL: Find a group of peers, or just a few, who you can share pages and artwork with, but also share joys and sorrows with. There is a way to be professional, but there is also a way to care about one another throughout this process because it’s not easy. When you have a community who can be there for each other, the journey is better. AD: Where can readers find out more about you and your work? My website: www.rebekahlowell.com @RebekahLowell on all the socials Rebekah, thank you so much for joining us for this special Spotlight feature on Rising Stars in KidLit! Congrats again on THE ROAD TO AFTER. We look forward to your debut picture book, CATCHING FLIGHT, too! It sure has been fun and inspirational watching you rise AND shine! Thank you for telling your story and for your honesty and vulnerability. So many wonderful nuggets of wisdom for all to learn from. For all the art lovers out there, join Rebekah's newsletter to receive a free art supplies guide! Sign up HERE! And don't miss out on the opportunity to read the opening pages of her book HERE! Feel free to drop a comment below to support Rebekah and her work. Be sure to subscribe to the Rising Stars series so you don't miss out on the next Rising Stars in Kidlit feature and follow along on Twitter at #RisingStarsinKidlit!  Win a signed copy of THE ROAD TO AFTER plus book swag!! TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY: ✅ Follow Rebekah & Amanda on Twitter ✅ Retweet this post on Twitter ✅ Tag 3 friends in the comments on Twitter A random winner will be selected to receive a signed copy of THE ROAD TO AFTER plus some fun book swag! The deadline for this contest is Wednesday, June 8th at 9AM EST. The winner will be contacted on Wednesday, June 8th and announced on Twitter. 
 © Amanda Davis Art Rising Stars in KidLit is back in 2022! Hooray! Rising Stars in KidLit began as a way to highlight my fellow kidlit creators who are working their tails off to birth their beautiful book babies into the world. These interviews cast a light on the wonderful work of pre-published or pre-agented authors and author-illustrators who are destined to be stars! Meet Rising Star |
 Photo Credit: Angela Wood Photography | Hi! I'm Amanda! Amanda Davis is a teacher, artist, writer, and innovator who uses her words and pictures to light up the world with kindness. When she’s not busy creating, you can find her sipping tea, petting dogs, and exploring the natural wonders of The Bay State with her family and her rescue pup, Cora. Amanda is represented by Jennifer Unter of The Unter Agency. Amanda's award-winning picture book, 30,000 STITCHES is out now with WorthyKids/Hachette Book Group! Click here to learn more.  |
Today is Multicultural Children's Book Day, and I'm celebrating by writing reviews for some amazing diverse chapter books. Before I dive into my reviews, here is a little bit more information about What Multicultural Children's Book Day is and how it came to be.
Founded in 2012 by Valarie Budayr from Audrey Press Books and Mia Wenjen from Pragmatic Mom, Multicultural Children's Book Day grew out of their own frustrations with the lack of diverse books for their own families. As a result, they decided to team up to create an event that would help raise awareness around children's books that celebrate diversity but also get these books into classrooms and libraries around the world. This event is now known as Multicultural Children's Book Day (MCBD) and is celebrated every year on the last Friday in January. Multicultural Children's Book Day (MCBD) is an online and offline celebration of thousands of supporters, educators, parents, caregivers, book reviewers, and quality authors and publishers who team up to spotlight diversity in children through YA literature. Over the course of its eight year run, the MCBD non-profit has donated over 8,000 books to kids and the intitiave has expanded offline to classrooms programs, celebrations and global connections.
I'm excited to participate this year by reviewing Dumpling Day written by Meera Sriram, Illustrated by Inés de Antuñano and published by Barefoot Books.
Founded in 2012 by Valarie Budayr from Audrey Press Books and Mia Wenjen from Pragmatic Mom, Multicultural Children's Book Day grew out of their own frustrations with the lack of diverse books for their own families. As a result, they decided to team up to create an event that would help raise awareness around children's books that celebrate diversity but also get these books into classrooms and libraries around the world. This event is now known as Multicultural Children's Book Day (MCBD) and is celebrated every year on the last Friday in January. Multicultural Children's Book Day (MCBD) is an online and offline celebration of thousands of supporters, educators, parents, caregivers, book reviewers, and quality authors and publishers who team up to spotlight diversity in children through YA literature. Over the course of its eight year run, the MCBD non-profit has donated over 8,000 books to kids and the intitiave has expanded offline to classrooms programs, celebrations and global connections.
I'm excited to participate this year by reviewing Dumpling Day written by Meera Sriram, Illustrated by Inés de Antuñano and published by Barefoot Books.
MY REVIEW: A DELICIOUS DELIGHT!
Dumpling Day was a delicious delight. With a wide array of different types of dumplings being shared, readers are introduced to a variety of cultures and diverse families as they follow along with Sriram’s rollicking rhyming text which (BONUS!!) includes counting from 1-10!
Antunano’s bright, fun, and textured illustrations leave you feeling happy and hungry! You’re left with a very special treat of 10 yummy recipes and information on where each originated from in the back matter. This book is great for an at-home read but also a wonderful addition to school and library collections as an introduction to culture, culinary arts, counting, and geography! I highly recommend!
Antunano’s bright, fun, and textured illustrations leave you feeling happy and hungry! You’re left with a very special treat of 10 yummy recipes and information on where each originated from in the back matter. This book is great for an at-home read but also a wonderful addition to school and library collections as an introduction to culture, culinary arts, counting, and geography! I highly recommend!
I want to give a BIG thank you to Barefoot Books for gifting me this wonderful book to review and helping me diversify my bookshelf. I can't wait to try out some of the delicious dumpling recipes with my family. Thank you to all the organizers involved in Multicultural Children's Book Day for helping us raise awareness around the importance of diverse books in our homes and schools and helping to get these wonderful books into the hands of children around the world. Cheers!
For more MCBD fun, follow along on social media at #ReadYourWorld!!
BONUS! Check out this MCBD Diversity Book List & Activities for Teachers and Parents!
MCBD 2022 is honored to be Supported by these Medallion Sponsors!
SUPER PLATINUM: Make A Way Media
PLATINUM: Language Lizard
GOLD: Barefoot Books, KidLitTV, Candlewick, Capstone, Abrams Books
SILVER: Pack-n-Go Girls, Charlotte Riggle, Kimberly Gordon Biddle
BRONZE: Carole P. Roman, Patrice McLaurin, Dyesha and Triesha McCants/McCants Squared, Redfin.com, Redfin Canada, Redfin Mortgage, Redfin/Title Forward, Create & Educate, Star Bright Books, Vivian Kirkfield, Dr. Eleanor Wint, Kind World Publishing, Snowflake Stories, Lisa Wee, SONGJU MA, Melissa Stoller, J.C. Kato and J.C.², Crystel Patterson, Audrey Press, Pragmaticmom, TimTimTom, Wisdom Tales
MCBD 2022 is honored to be Supported by these Author Sponsors!Charlene Mosley (official MCBD2022 Poster Creator)
Illustrator Isabelle Roxas (Class Kit Poster Creator)
Alva Sachs, Brianna Carter, Ebony Zay Zay, Rita Bhandari, Gwen Jackson, Lois Petren/The 5 Enchanted Mermaids, Valerie Williams-Sanchez and Valorena Publishing, Josh Funk, Afsaneh Moradian, Eugenia Chu, Maritza Martínez Mejía, Diana Huang, Kathleen Burkinshaw, CultureGroove, Sandra Elaine Scott, Dorena Williamson, Veronica Appleton, Alejandra Domenzain, Lauren Muskovitz and Sandfish Publishing, Tonya Duncan Ellis, Kimberly Lee, Susan Schaefer Bernardo & Illustrator Courtenay Fletcher, Nancy Tupper Ling, Winsome Hudson-Bingham, Amanda Hsiung-Blodgett, Sivan Hong, Michael Genhart, Debbie Dadey, Elizabeth Cureton, Stephanie Wildman, Maryann Jacob, Sherri Maret, Rochelle Melander, Dia Mixon, Kiyanda and Benjamin Young, Shereen Rahming, Linda Thornburg and Katherine Archer, Rebecca Flansburg and BA Norrgard , Maxine Schur Natalie McDonald-Perkins
MCBD 2022 is Honored to be Supported by our CoHosts and Global CoHosts!
MCBD 2022 is Honored to be Supported by these Media Partners!
Check out MCBD's Multicultural Books for Kids Pinterest Board!
FREE RESOURCES from Multicultural Children’s Book Day
Diversity Book Lists & Activities for Teachers and Parents
Homeschool Diverse Kidlit Booklist & Activity Kit
FREE Teacher Classroom Activism and Activists Kit
FREE Teacher Classroom Empathy Kit
FREE Teacher Classroom Kindness Kit
FREE Teacher Classroom Physical and Developmental Challenges Kit
FREE Teacher Classroom Poverty Kit
FREE Homeschool Diverse Kidlit Booklist & Activity Kit
FREE Teacher Classroom Raising Awareness on Systemic Racism in America Classroom Kit
Gallery of Our Free Posters
FREE Diversity Book for Classrooms Program
Join us tonight, at 9 pm EST for the 9th annual Multicultural Children's Book Day Twitter Party! Be sure and follow MCBD and Make A Way Media on Twitter!
For more MCBD fun, follow along on social media at #ReadYourWorld!!
BONUS! Check out this MCBD Diversity Book List & Activities for Teachers and Parents!
MCBD 2022 is honored to be Supported by these Medallion Sponsors!
SUPER PLATINUM: Make A Way Media
PLATINUM: Language Lizard
GOLD: Barefoot Books, KidLitTV, Candlewick, Capstone, Abrams Books
SILVER: Pack-n-Go Girls, Charlotte Riggle, Kimberly Gordon Biddle
BRONZE: Carole P. Roman, Patrice McLaurin, Dyesha and Triesha McCants/McCants Squared, Redfin.com, Redfin Canada, Redfin Mortgage, Redfin/Title Forward, Create & Educate, Star Bright Books, Vivian Kirkfield, Dr. Eleanor Wint, Kind World Publishing, Snowflake Stories, Lisa Wee, SONGJU MA, Melissa Stoller, J.C. Kato and J.C.², Crystel Patterson, Audrey Press, Pragmaticmom, TimTimTom, Wisdom Tales
MCBD 2022 is honored to be Supported by these Author Sponsors!Charlene Mosley (official MCBD2022 Poster Creator)
Illustrator Isabelle Roxas (Class Kit Poster Creator)
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Join us tonight, at 9 pm EST for the 9th annual Multicultural Children's Book Day Twitter Party! Be sure and follow MCBD and Make A Way Media on Twitter!
There will be an 8-Book Bundle giveaway every 5 minutes plus Bonus Prizes as well! *** US and Global participants welcome. **
Follow the hashtag #ReadYourWorld to join the conversation, connect with like-minded parts, authors, publishers, educators, organizations, and librarians. See you all very soon on Twitter!
Hashtag: Don’t forget to connect with us on social media and be sure and look for/use our official hashtag #ReadYourWorld.
Follow the hashtag #ReadYourWorld to join the conversation, connect with like-minded parts, authors, publishers, educators, organizations, and librarians. See you all very soon on Twitter!
Hashtag: Don’t forget to connect with us on social media and be sure and look for/use our official hashtag #ReadYourWorld.
Artwork © 2021 Amanda Davis Art
Rising Stars continues in 2021! Hooray! The goal of this series is to highlight my fellow kidlit creators who are working their tails off to birth their beautiful book babies into the world. These interviews will cast a light on the wonderful work of these pre-published authors and author-illustrators who are destined to be stars!
Meet Rising Star
Author-Illustrator Erin Siska!
Photo Credit © 2021 Emily Jahr
Erin Treacy Siska has previously worked as an editor and a lawyer. Erin loves reading and exercising. She has read approximately 6,000 picture books since her daughter was born. Erin is a member of SCBWI; Storyteller Academy; the Florida Bar; a member and troop leader of the Girl Scouts; and a member and supporter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Her law review article about freedom of speech was published in the Communications and Entertainment Law Journal at UC Hastings College of the Law. Erin is now working toward her dream of becoming a picture book author-illustrator. Erin is currently seeking agent representation.
AD: Welcome, Erin! I'm so excited to have you on the blog.
Let’s start with a speed round…
AD: Okay, now down to the serious stuff….please dish us the dirt on who you are and your journey into the fabulous world of children’s books.
ES: I am currently a stay-at-home mom and I live with my husband, two children, and rescue dog in Fort Lauderdale. After reading thousands of picture books to my children, I started to say “I should write one of these!” I started writing creatively again over the past year, while isolating during the pandemic, and I am so glad that I did.
AD: A bright spot from this pandemic! How lovely! :)
Let’s start with a speed round…
- Top three favorite children’s books of all time? Gah! It’s totally impossible to pick just three but it’s deadline time so here goes...
- Goodnight Moon (classic)
- Not Quite Narwhal (contemporary)
- The Crayons’ Christmas - because how often do you get to the third book in a series that is just as funny and clever and original as the first, and even takes it to the next level with an interactive component of paper dolls, pullout game, and build-your-own dreidel? So huge props to Drew Daywalt and Oliver Jeffers on that one!
- Coffee, tea (or neither)? Coffee on the daily. Tea when I’m sick.
- Where is your safe place? With my family.
- Dogs, cats, (or neither)? Dogs.
- Early bird or night owl? These days, early bird.
- Three words to describe what it takes to make it in the kidlit world…Grit, luck, and Big time, Patience.
AD: Okay, now down to the serious stuff….please dish us the dirt on who you are and your journey into the fabulous world of children’s books.
ES: I am currently a stay-at-home mom and I live with my husband, two children, and rescue dog in Fort Lauderdale. After reading thousands of picture books to my children, I started to say “I should write one of these!” I started writing creatively again over the past year, while isolating during the pandemic, and I am so glad that I did.
AD: A bright spot from this pandemic! How lovely! :)
Fort Lauderdale is sometimes called the Venice of America because it has so many canals. Photo Credit © 2021 Erin Siska
AD: Did you always know you wanted to be an author-illustrator? Have you explored other paths or had/have other jobs?
ES: I have always enjoyed writing but my first career was a lawyer because I had to earn a living. I became a stay-at-home mom after my second child was born and my wonderful husband supports us all now. Thank you Joe, we love and appreciate you! Before lawyering, I worked in retail, in restaurants, in sandwich shops, and in the law library. Writing my stories is way more fun than negotiating and drafting insurance contracts and shareholder and employment agreements, although the money is not quite as good (*coughs* no money from writing yet. Zero.)
AD: So good to hear you are finding the fun in creating. That's so important. Sometimes it's easy to lose sight of the fun factor as we work towards our publishing goals. Thanks for the reminder to HAVE FUN!
ES: I have always enjoyed writing but my first career was a lawyer because I had to earn a living. I became a stay-at-home mom after my second child was born and my wonderful husband supports us all now. Thank you Joe, we love and appreciate you! Before lawyering, I worked in retail, in restaurants, in sandwich shops, and in the law library. Writing my stories is way more fun than negotiating and drafting insurance contracts and shareholder and employment agreements, although the money is not quite as good (*coughs* no money from writing yet. Zero.)
AD: So good to hear you are finding the fun in creating. That's so important. Sometimes it's easy to lose sight of the fun factor as we work towards our publishing goals. Thanks for the reminder to HAVE FUN!
Erin and her husband Joe. Photo Credit © 2021 Erin Siska
AD: What topics or themes do you tend to focus on in your writing/art? Favorite genres you like to write in or favorite art materials/techniques?
ES: In writing, I usually focus on character-driven fiction picture books although I have one non-fiction manuscript for ages 8-12 about the recent attack on the U.S. Capitol that I am excited about. And I’m also working on a chapter book series. I like quirky characters, gentle humor, and an emphasis on good mental health. It is a subject that is very important to me as someone who manages anxiety and depression and has a family history of mental illness. Laughter is often the best medicine. I focus on themes such as being your authentic self, kindness, inclusion, the power of positive thinking, and having a growth mindset. In art, I like clean, simple lines and lots of colors!
AD: Good for you for tackling the recent attacks on the Capitol and for creating stories that focus on mental health. I'm a big advocate for children needing all types of stories that explore a range of topics and emotions. They need it all!
ES: In writing, I usually focus on character-driven fiction picture books although I have one non-fiction manuscript for ages 8-12 about the recent attack on the U.S. Capitol that I am excited about. And I’m also working on a chapter book series. I like quirky characters, gentle humor, and an emphasis on good mental health. It is a subject that is very important to me as someone who manages anxiety and depression and has a family history of mental illness. Laughter is often the best medicine. I focus on themes such as being your authentic self, kindness, inclusion, the power of positive thinking, and having a growth mindset. In art, I like clean, simple lines and lots of colors!
AD: Good for you for tackling the recent attacks on the Capitol and for creating stories that focus on mental health. I'm a big advocate for children needing all types of stories that explore a range of topics and emotions. They need it all!
Erin’s 2021 sketchbook. Photo Credit © 2021 Erin Siska
AD: Breaking into the publishing industry is not easy! What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced thus far? What have you done to persevere?
ES: For me, it’s been having patience! I thought the wheels of justice turned slowly but the legal field’s got nothing on the publishing industry. I had to take a deep breath, slow down, and remind myself that it’s about the journey and not the destination. Thank goodness I have my critique partners to talk things over with and provide support and encouragement!
AD: CP's are the best!!
"I believe that the perfect is the enemy of the good."
AD: As creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well. With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing/illustration journey?
I’m really proud of creating my author website all by myself. It might not look like much, and it took me FOREVER, but as a technologically-challenged person this was a huge win for me! And I love that I have carved out a little corner of cyberspace just for me.
AD: Your author website looks great! Congrats! Every small success is worthy of celebration on this journey!
Middle-Grade Erin :) Photo Credit © 2021 Erin Siska
AD: In a similar vein, what do you feel are your strengths as an author/illustrator? What makes your art/writing unique to you?
ES: I am big on characters, so I focus on them first then the plot, dialogue, illustration style, and everything else flows from there. I love my characters so much! As the mom of two young children; host of a zillion play dates and Girl Scout meetings; and class parent, I have a pretty good ear for dialogue and will use funny things the kids say in my manuscripts.
AD: What inspires your work?
ES: There are ideas all around - from my children, from going on walks, art and music, everywhere.
ES: I am big on characters, so I focus on them first then the plot, dialogue, illustration style, and everything else flows from there. I love my characters so much! As the mom of two young children; host of a zillion play dates and Girl Scout meetings; and class parent, I have a pretty good ear for dialogue and will use funny things the kids say in my manuscripts.
AD: What inspires your work?
ES: There are ideas all around - from my children, from going on walks, art and music, everywhere.
Florida has the best sunsets! Photo Credit © 2021 Erin Siska
AD: Tell us about your creative process and what you do to keep ideas flowing or what you do when feeling stuck?
ES: I’m big on accountability, so having set meeting times with some of my critique groups keeps me on track. If I have a meeting coming up, it puts a good type of pressure on me to submit something, even if it’s not polished or even finished. Just get something done, and send it in! It’s a great motivator.
Regarding my creative process, I tend to let ideas percolate for a long time in my mind before putting them on paper. Then when I’m ready, it just flows. I might do a few rounds of revisions, especially if big-picture ones are needed, but I don’t like nitpicking at my manuscripts. I guess I’m a bit of a brat that way, but I believe that the perfect is the enemy of the good and my manuscripts are never going to be perfect in everyone’s mind anyway. So I may as well just get them out there!
AD: The perfect is the enemy of the good...I love that, and so true!
ES: I’m big on accountability, so having set meeting times with some of my critique groups keeps me on track. If I have a meeting coming up, it puts a good type of pressure on me to submit something, even if it’s not polished or even finished. Just get something done, and send it in! It’s a great motivator.
Regarding my creative process, I tend to let ideas percolate for a long time in my mind before putting them on paper. Then when I’m ready, it just flows. I might do a few rounds of revisions, especially if big-picture ones are needed, but I don’t like nitpicking at my manuscripts. I guess I’m a bit of a brat that way, but I believe that the perfect is the enemy of the good and my manuscripts are never going to be perfect in everyone’s mind anyway. So I may as well just get them out there!
AD: The perfect is the enemy of the good...I love that, and so true!
AD: What sorts of things have been most integral in your growth as an author-illustrator?
ES: I owe a huge debt of gratitude to my critique partners who have inspired me and helped me grow as a writer. And Storyteller Academy has taught me how to draw and how to think like an artist, in addition to helping me on the writing front.
PB Erin rocking out to Lionel Richie in her favorite purple overalls (with friends Pia and Mary). Photo Credit © 2021 Erin Siska
AD: What advice do you have for fellow kidlit creatives?
ES: I would recommend engaging with the KidLit community and connecting with other writers and artists because it is such a warm, collegial, and creative community and that is a rare and very wonderful thing!
AD: I completely agree!!
Where can readers find out more about you and your work?
- My Twitter is @erinsiska5
- My website is www.erinsiska.com.
Oh! And can I give a few shoutouts before I go?
AD: Of course!!!
I would like to thank the critique partners in my StoryStellars and Inkalicious critique groups...
…Yana Yakubchik for her beautiful art
...Tara Lazar for Storystorm
...Julie Hedlund for her 12 Days of Christmas for Writers
La-dee-da
...Justin Colon for #PBChat
...Mindy Alyse Weiss from my Florida SCBWI for #PBParty and her sparkle
Dee-dee-dum
...Chris Nantais for his new word counting tool for Google docs. You can find his PB Workshop at https://discord.com/invite/KSYfkNg
...Mark Wright for #TacoPitch. It was so much fun!!!
La-dee-dum
...Ally Enz, my peak performance partner
...thank you Kaitlyn Leann Sanchez, Ciara O’Neal and Vivian Kirkfield for your wonderful writing contests!
...my family and friends for their support
La-dee-da-dee-dum
...and I would like to thank the Academy - I mean, the SCBWI - for making this all possible! Well, I hear the orchestra playing me off now. OK. Byyyye!
Thank you so much for this opportunity and this interview, Amanda!
ES: I would recommend engaging with the KidLit community and connecting with other writers and artists because it is such a warm, collegial, and creative community and that is a rare and very wonderful thing!
AD: I completely agree!!
Where can readers find out more about you and your work?
- My Twitter is @erinsiska5
- My website is www.erinsiska.com.
Oh! And can I give a few shoutouts before I go?
AD: Of course!!!
I would like to thank the critique partners in my StoryStellars and Inkalicious critique groups...
…Yana Yakubchik for her beautiful art
...Tara Lazar for Storystorm
...Julie Hedlund for her 12 Days of Christmas for Writers
La-dee-da
...Justin Colon for #PBChat
...Mindy Alyse Weiss from my Florida SCBWI for #PBParty and her sparkle
Dee-dee-dum
...Chris Nantais for his new word counting tool for Google docs. You can find his PB Workshop at https://discord.com/invite/KSYfkNg
...Mark Wright for #TacoPitch. It was so much fun!!!
La-dee-dum
...Ally Enz, my peak performance partner
...thank you Kaitlyn Leann Sanchez, Ciara O’Neal and Vivian Kirkfield for your wonderful writing contests!
...my family and friends for their support
La-dee-da-dee-dum
...and I would like to thank the Academy - I mean, the SCBWI - for making this all possible! Well, I hear the orchestra playing me off now. OK. Byyyye!
Thank you so much for this opportunity and this interview, Amanda!
AD: You're welcome, Erin! It was my pleasure and what a wonderful list of shout-outs!! Thank you so much for stopping by the blog! I appreciate you sharing a bit about yourself and contributing to the Rising Stars in Kidlit series We can't wait to read your stories and see your art! Feel free to drop a comment below to support Erin and her work, and be sure to subscribe so you don't miss out and follow along on Twitter at #RisingStarsinKidlit!
| | Hi! I'm Amanda! Amanda Davis is a teacher, artist, writer, and innovator who uses her words and pictures to light up the world with kindness. When she’s not busy creating, you can find her sipping tea, petting dogs, and exploring the natural wonders of The Bay State with her partner and rescue pup, Cora. Amanda is represented by Jennifer Unter of The Unter Agency. Her debut picture book, 30,000 STITCHES is available NOW wherever books are sold! |
Artwork © 2021 Amanda Davis Art
Rising Stars continues in 2021! Hooray! The goal of this series is to highlight my fellow kidlit creators who are working their tails off to birth their beautiful book babies into the world. These interviews will cast a light on the wonderful work of these pre-published authors and author-illustrators who are destined to be stars!
Meet Rising Star
Author Daniele Arndt!
Meet Rising Star
Author Daniele Arndt!
Photo Courtesy of © 2021 Daniele Arndt
Daniele Arndt is a picture book writer, an active member of SCBWI, StoryStorm, and four critique groups. She was also a finalist in Justin Colón’s 2019 #PBChat writing mentorship. When Daniele isn’t writing, she enjoys spending time with her family, camping, walking in the woods or anywhere near water, going to church, and playing Mario Kart and board games. Daniele is currently seeking agent representation.
Let’s start with a speed round…
● Top three favorite children’s books of all time? Strictly No Elephants by Lisa Mantchev and Tae-eun Yoo, Giraffe problems by Jory John and Lane Smith, and Love Monster by Rachel Bright.
● Coffee, tea (or neither)? Neither. I actually have a love-hate relationship with coffee. I love the smell but hate the taste.
● Where is your safe place? Anywhere my husband and kids are.
● Dogs, cats, (or neither)? Dogs are sweeter, but cats are more entertaining. Can I say both?
● Early bird or night owl? Early bird.
● Three words to describe what it takes to make it in the kidlit world… Faith, Perseverance, and Critique partners.
AD: Okay, now down to the serious stuff….Please dish us the dirt on who you are and your journey into the fabulous world of children’s books.
DA: First of all, thank you for having me! I can’t even believe I’m getting interviewed for Rising Stars in KidLit!!! I teared up when I got your email saying Chelsea Tornetto nominated me. For the longest time, I wouldn’t even say I was a writer. The librarian at my local library recently asked me if I was a teacher because of all the picture books I'm always borrowing. I took a deep breath, and I did it. I told her I was a writer. It felt so amazing finally saying it out loud.
So… I’m a writer, and I’m a wife to a wonderfully kind, supportive man and a mother to two amazingly fun and funny teenagers (help). Growing up, I loved reading. Reading was the only thing that held my attention. I was constantly daydreaming, and when I read, I didn’t get distracted by other things. Although I was never diagnosed, I'm sure I have ADD. My son is diagnosed with ADD, and he struggles with the same things I did/do. Learning was difficult for me, and that made me self-conscious and scared, so I didn't allow myself to have dreams for my future. Because of that, I never knew what I wanted to be when I grew up. It took me until I was thirty to finally know. In 2003, after we had our firstborn, I went into a bookstore to buy books to read to him. I walked into that store, not knowing what I wanted to do with my life, and I walked out knowing that I wanted and needed to write picture books. I immediately went home and wrote my first story. It was awful! I didn’t know what I was doing, but it made me so unbelievably happy. But after that, I kept telling myself I was too busy to write.
Then in 2016, thirteen years later, I was finally honest with myself. I knew that fear was the only reason I wasn’t writing. I thought, because of my learning struggles, I couldn’t learn how to write. It was a huge revelation for me. I vowed right then and there I would believe in myself and I would try with everything to make this dream a reality. I would learn how to write.
So I started with research, and somewhere I read if you want to write, you need to read and write every day. Almost five years later, and I’m still, for the most part, doing that. I wake up, get my kids off to school, pray and do my devotions, and then I read, and I learn, and I write. I’ve made some fantastic friends on this writing journey. I’ve truly never met a more encouraging community. It’s amazing and wonderful and lovely! I belong to four critique groups, and I have the best critique partners anyone could ask for. They just encouraged me to enter my first writing contest—Vivian Kirkfield’s 50 precious words. Again, fear kept me from entering these contests because I couldn’t imagine I could write a story with only 50 words or less. I was thrilled to find out I received an honorable mention! Wow! So, I’m going to keep learning and writing, and one of these days, I’m going to go into that bookstore, and I’m going to pick up a book, and it’s going to be one of my picture books!
AD: Wow! What an inspiring story, Daniele. I'm so glad Chelsea nominated you for the feature, too! Taking that leap to acknowledge ourselves as writers is huge. I always tell my art students, if they made a piece of art, their artists. The same goes for writing. Do you write, yes....than you're a writer. How brave of you to commit to overcoming your fear. What a great role model you are for your family, too!
● Top three favorite children’s books of all time? Strictly No Elephants by Lisa Mantchev and Tae-eun Yoo, Giraffe problems by Jory John and Lane Smith, and Love Monster by Rachel Bright.
● Coffee, tea (or neither)? Neither. I actually have a love-hate relationship with coffee. I love the smell but hate the taste.
● Where is your safe place? Anywhere my husband and kids are.
● Dogs, cats, (or neither)? Dogs are sweeter, but cats are more entertaining. Can I say both?
● Early bird or night owl? Early bird.
● Three words to describe what it takes to make it in the kidlit world… Faith, Perseverance, and Critique partners.
AD: Okay, now down to the serious stuff….Please dish us the dirt on who you are and your journey into the fabulous world of children’s books.
DA: First of all, thank you for having me! I can’t even believe I’m getting interviewed for Rising Stars in KidLit!!! I teared up when I got your email saying Chelsea Tornetto nominated me. For the longest time, I wouldn’t even say I was a writer. The librarian at my local library recently asked me if I was a teacher because of all the picture books I'm always borrowing. I took a deep breath, and I did it. I told her I was a writer. It felt so amazing finally saying it out loud.
So… I’m a writer, and I’m a wife to a wonderfully kind, supportive man and a mother to two amazingly fun and funny teenagers (help). Growing up, I loved reading. Reading was the only thing that held my attention. I was constantly daydreaming, and when I read, I didn’t get distracted by other things. Although I was never diagnosed, I'm sure I have ADD. My son is diagnosed with ADD, and he struggles with the same things I did/do. Learning was difficult for me, and that made me self-conscious and scared, so I didn't allow myself to have dreams for my future. Because of that, I never knew what I wanted to be when I grew up. It took me until I was thirty to finally know. In 2003, after we had our firstborn, I went into a bookstore to buy books to read to him. I walked into that store, not knowing what I wanted to do with my life, and I walked out knowing that I wanted and needed to write picture books. I immediately went home and wrote my first story. It was awful! I didn’t know what I was doing, but it made me so unbelievably happy. But after that, I kept telling myself I was too busy to write.
Then in 2016, thirteen years later, I was finally honest with myself. I knew that fear was the only reason I wasn’t writing. I thought, because of my learning struggles, I couldn’t learn how to write. It was a huge revelation for me. I vowed right then and there I would believe in myself and I would try with everything to make this dream a reality. I would learn how to write.
So I started with research, and somewhere I read if you want to write, you need to read and write every day. Almost five years later, and I’m still, for the most part, doing that. I wake up, get my kids off to school, pray and do my devotions, and then I read, and I learn, and I write. I’ve made some fantastic friends on this writing journey. I’ve truly never met a more encouraging community. It’s amazing and wonderful and lovely! I belong to four critique groups, and I have the best critique partners anyone could ask for. They just encouraged me to enter my first writing contest—Vivian Kirkfield’s 50 precious words. Again, fear kept me from entering these contests because I couldn’t imagine I could write a story with only 50 words or less. I was thrilled to find out I received an honorable mention! Wow! So, I’m going to keep learning and writing, and one of these days, I’m going to go into that bookstore, and I’m going to pick up a book, and it’s going to be one of my picture books!
AD: Wow! What an inspiring story, Daniele. I'm so glad Chelsea nominated you for the feature, too! Taking that leap to acknowledge ourselves as writers is huge. I always tell my art students, if they made a piece of art, their artists. The same goes for writing. Do you write, yes....than you're a writer. How brave of you to commit to overcoming your fear. What a great role model you are for your family, too!
Daniele and her family. Photo Credit © 2021 Daniele Arndt
AD: Did you always know you wanted to be an author? Have you explored other paths or had/have other jobs?
DA: I went to college for two years, but you can only go so long without knowing what you want to do. I explored many different things, trying to figure out what I enjoyed. I tried waitressing. I decorated cakes. I was a bank teller. I worked for a media company based out of a hospital where I made medical slides for doctor’s presentations. I was a photographer for our local newspaper. I even worked for a landscaper which was the most physically demanding job I’ve ever had. I just kept trying different things. I didn’t realize it then, but I was searching for that feeling I got in that bookstore—that feeling of knowing where you belong and what you’re supposed to be doing.
AD: I love how a bookstore fueled your fire to write for children. They sure are magical places to visit and hang out! :)
AD: What topics or themes do you tend to focus on in your writing? Favorite genres you like to write in or favorite techniques?
DA: I write fiction, and aside from something I wrote in memory of my father, I only write humorous stories.
AD: I envy those who can write humor! It's an area I'm still working on. It's so necessary for children to experience all the feelings and ranges of emotions in picture books!
DA: I went to college for two years, but you can only go so long without knowing what you want to do. I explored many different things, trying to figure out what I enjoyed. I tried waitressing. I decorated cakes. I was a bank teller. I worked for a media company based out of a hospital where I made medical slides for doctor’s presentations. I was a photographer for our local newspaper. I even worked for a landscaper which was the most physically demanding job I’ve ever had. I just kept trying different things. I didn’t realize it then, but I was searching for that feeling I got in that bookstore—that feeling of knowing where you belong and what you’re supposed to be doing.
AD: I love how a bookstore fueled your fire to write for children. They sure are magical places to visit and hang out! :)
AD: What topics or themes do you tend to focus on in your writing? Favorite genres you like to write in or favorite techniques?
DA: I write fiction, and aside from something I wrote in memory of my father, I only write humorous stories.
AD: I envy those who can write humor! It's an area I'm still working on. It's so necessary for children to experience all the feelings and ranges of emotions in picture books!
Daniele's writing nook. Photo Credit © 2021 Daniele Arndt
AD: Breaking into the publishing industry is not easy! What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced thus far? What have you done to persevere?
DA: Self-confidence and waiting. Because it took me so long to get here, I feel like I need to hurry. I’ve sent so many stories to agents before they were ready. I didn’t know they weren’t ready at the time, but I cringe when I look back at them. I’m finally at the point where I force myself to set stories aside for a while before doing anything with them. I’m always happy I did because I always find something I want to change. To persevere, I just keep praying and hoping and writing. It helps to have a supportive family and wonderful CPs/friends who know how rejections feel and how it feels to want something so badly.
AD: As creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well. With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing journey?
DA: I’m most proud that I’m doing it. That I’m not giving up even when it seems daunting. It takes me so much longer to do or understand things because I have to read instructions at least three or four times before I understand them. I’m proud that I’m not getting discouraged by that, and I’m pushing forward and giving it my all.
AD: Yes! Showing up and not giving up are HUGE!
DA: Self-confidence and waiting. Because it took me so long to get here, I feel like I need to hurry. I’ve sent so many stories to agents before they were ready. I didn’t know they weren’t ready at the time, but I cringe when I look back at them. I’m finally at the point where I force myself to set stories aside for a while before doing anything with them. I’m always happy I did because I always find something I want to change. To persevere, I just keep praying and hoping and writing. It helps to have a supportive family and wonderful CPs/friends who know how rejections feel and how it feels to want something so badly.
AD: As creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well. With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing journey?
DA: I’m most proud that I’m doing it. That I’m not giving up even when it seems daunting. It takes me so much longer to do or understand things because I have to read instructions at least three or four times before I understand them. I’m proud that I’m not getting discouraged by that, and I’m pushing forward and giving it my all.
AD: Yes! Showing up and not giving up are HUGE!
Daniele hard at work in her writing nook! Photo Credit © 2021 Daniele Arndt
AD: In a similar vein, what do you feel are your strengths as an author? What makes your writing unique to you?
DA: I think I’m fairly funny. I make myself laugh, anyway. And I have fun/unique story ideas. I’m a giant dork with a super cheesy sense of humor, and that, oddly enough, helps my writing.
DA: I think I’m fairly funny. I make myself laugh, anyway. And I have fun/unique story ideas. I’m a giant dork with a super cheesy sense of humor, and that, oddly enough, helps my writing.
Daniele's support system--her family!! Photo Credit © 2021 Daniele Arndt
AD: What inspires your work?
DA: Picturing kids laughing at something I wrote. My daughter had severe separation anxiety for five years. I did everything I could think of to make her laugh. It’s hard being sad when you’re laughing. She loves reading my stories. They make her laugh, and that makes me happy.
AD: Tell us about your creative process and what you do to keep ideas flowing or what you do when feeling stuck?
DA: I read picture books. Anytime I feel stuck, I open a picture book, and the ideas start to flow. Also, I sometimes need to set my writing aside and take a break and go for a walk. Being outside, especially near any body of water, makes me happy and refreshed. If I could set my desk and computer near a lake, I’d never leave.
AD: Breaks and nature are necessary for rebooting!
DA: Picturing kids laughing at something I wrote. My daughter had severe separation anxiety for five years. I did everything I could think of to make her laugh. It’s hard being sad when you’re laughing. She loves reading my stories. They make her laugh, and that makes me happy.
AD: Tell us about your creative process and what you do to keep ideas flowing or what you do when feeling stuck?
DA: I read picture books. Anytime I feel stuck, I open a picture book, and the ideas start to flow. Also, I sometimes need to set my writing aside and take a break and go for a walk. Being outside, especially near any body of water, makes me happy and refreshed. If I could set my desk and computer near a lake, I’d never leave.
AD: Breaks and nature are necessary for rebooting!
"Anytime I feel stuck, I open a picture book, and the ideas start to flow."
AD: What sorts of things have been most integral in your growth as an author?
DA: My faith. I can’t concentrate or do anything if I don’t spend time with God. I’ve found, if I’m having a bad day or am just feeling out of sorts, it’s always the days where I didn’t take time to pray. My family is a huge part of my growth, too. My husband and kids are my biggest cheerleaders. They get so excited when anything good happens with my writing. My husband is the best person I know. He works 50-60 hours a week so I can stay home and focus on this dream of mine. And my critique partners. I couldn’t do this without them. Also, after I do a few rounds of revisions from critiques from my CPs, I try to get paid critiques. I use Kate Allen Fox and Chelsea Tornetto, who are amazingly talented. The two of them and my CPs challenge and push me to uncomfortable points where I just don’t think I can go, and I love that. My stories are always better for it. I also try watching webinars on writing, and I completed Susanna Leonard Hill’s Making Picture Book Magic. I feel like Susanna’s class is a must-do. And I’ve read several books on writing picture books.
AD: It sounds like you have an amazing support system, Daniele and ways to keep grounded. It's nice that you've surrounded yourself with other creatives who will push you outside your comfort zone in order to grow and develop. That's so important!
DA: My faith. I can’t concentrate or do anything if I don’t spend time with God. I’ve found, if I’m having a bad day or am just feeling out of sorts, it’s always the days where I didn’t take time to pray. My family is a huge part of my growth, too. My husband and kids are my biggest cheerleaders. They get so excited when anything good happens with my writing. My husband is the best person I know. He works 50-60 hours a week so I can stay home and focus on this dream of mine. And my critique partners. I couldn’t do this without them. Also, after I do a few rounds of revisions from critiques from my CPs, I try to get paid critiques. I use Kate Allen Fox and Chelsea Tornetto, who are amazingly talented. The two of them and my CPs challenge and push me to uncomfortable points where I just don’t think I can go, and I love that. My stories are always better for it. I also try watching webinars on writing, and I completed Susanna Leonard Hill’s Making Picture Book Magic. I feel like Susanna’s class is a must-do. And I’ve read several books on writing picture books.
AD: It sounds like you have an amazing support system, Daniele and ways to keep grounded. It's nice that you've surrounded yourself with other creatives who will push you outside your comfort zone in order to grow and develop. That's so important!
Daniele's recent volunteer walk for her church. Photo Credit © 2021 Jim Parkinson
Photo Credit © 2021 Daniele Arndt
AD: What advice do you have for fellow kidlit creatives?
DA: Make sure you have critique partners. Read. When you think your story is ready, set it aside for a bit. If you can, get paid critiques. Watch webinars. Believe in yourself and never ever give up. You can do this! And don’t let fear and doubt stand in your way of trying. You’ll never know if you don’t try (I think those are actually lyrics to a song).
AD: Where can readers find out more about you and your work?
DA: I'm terrible with technology. Shout out to my CP and friend Janice Woods for picking up her phone every time I have a technology-related question. I plan on someday having a website, but for now, you can find me on Twitter at @edearndt. I love interacting with the kidlit community!
DA: Make sure you have critique partners. Read. When you think your story is ready, set it aside for a bit. If you can, get paid critiques. Watch webinars. Believe in yourself and never ever give up. You can do this! And don’t let fear and doubt stand in your way of trying. You’ll never know if you don’t try (I think those are actually lyrics to a song).
AD: Where can readers find out more about you and your work?
DA: I'm terrible with technology. Shout out to my CP and friend Janice Woods for picking up her phone every time I have a technology-related question. I plan on someday having a website, but for now, you can find me on Twitter at @edearndt. I love interacting with the kidlit community!
AD: Thank you so much for stopping by the blog, Daniele! I appreciate you sharing a bit about yourself and contributing to the Rising Stars in Kidlit series We can't wait to have a laugh when we read your humorous stories! Feel free to drop a comment below to support Daniele and her work, and be sure to subscribe so you don't miss out and follow along on Twitter at #RisingStarsinKidlit!
| | Hi! I'm Amanda! Amanda Davis is a teacher, artist, writer, and innovator who uses her words and pictures to light up the world with kindness. When she’s not busy creating, you can find her sipping tea, petting dogs, and exploring the natural wonders of The Bay State with her partner and rescue pup, Cora. Amanda is represented by Jennifer Unter of The Unter Agency. Her debut picture book, 30,000 STITCHES is available NOW wherever books are sold! |
Artwork © 2021 Amanda Davis Art
Rising Stars continues in 2021! Hooray! The goal of this series is to highlight my fellow kidlit creators who are working their tails off to birth their beautiful book babies into the world. These interviews will cast a light on the wonderful work of these pre-published authors and author-illustrators who are destined to be stars!
Meet Rising Star
Author Natalie Morales
Photo Credit © 2021 Ricardo Morales
Natalie Morales was born and raised in Southern California to two immigrant parents. Natalie is a storyteller and dual language writer. She holds a dual degree from Seattle University where she studied for two quarters at the Universidad Iberoamericana in Puebla, Mexico. Natalie also holds a J.D. from the University of San Francisco, School of Law where she served as a representative for the Family Law Society and the Youth Advocacy Association. Natalie now lives in Northern California with her husband and two dogs. Natalie is currently seeking agent representation.
Let’s start with a speed round…
NM: I have always enjoyed jotting down stories and poems in a notebook or on my phone. Writing has always felt like an escape. I took up writing seriously a little over a year ago and joined Julie Hedlund’s 12x12 challenge in January of this year where I met some wonderful writers by joining critique groups. In late March of this year, I was offered a book deal. It was through one of my critique group partners that I learned of my publisher, Young Dragons Press, a division of Oghma Creative Media. After submitting a manuscript for critique, a critique group partner suggested I query it to Young Dragons Press. I am one to believe that everything happens for a reason, all you need to do is believe in yourself.
AD: A fellow 12x12er! Hooray! Congrats on the recent book deal with Young Dragon press, too! I can't wait to learn more about the story!
AD: Did you always know you wanted to be an author? Have you explored other paths or had/have other jobs?
NM: I have worked in the legal field since graduating undergrad. I am now a law school graduate preparing for the California bar exam. I have always wanted to be a writer and aspired to be a published author. It wasn’t until the pandemic that life slowed enough for me to really consider taking it seriously. Now, I divide my time to both study and develop my craft. Writing is something I look forward to doing for the rest of my life.
AD: Good luck as you prepare for the California bar exam! Exciting stuff! And yes, a bright spot to this crazy pandemic has been time to pause and reflect often leading to unexpected and welcoming surprises.
- Top three favorite children’s books of all time? Madeline series by Ludwig Bemelmans, Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren and The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
- Coffee, tea (or neither)? Tea
- Where is your safe place? At the beach
- Dogs, cats, (or neither)? Dogs
- Early bird or night owl? Night owl
- Three words to describe what it takes to make it in the kidlit world… Believe in yourself.
NM: I have always enjoyed jotting down stories and poems in a notebook or on my phone. Writing has always felt like an escape. I took up writing seriously a little over a year ago and joined Julie Hedlund’s 12x12 challenge in January of this year where I met some wonderful writers by joining critique groups. In late March of this year, I was offered a book deal. It was through one of my critique group partners that I learned of my publisher, Young Dragons Press, a division of Oghma Creative Media. After submitting a manuscript for critique, a critique group partner suggested I query it to Young Dragons Press. I am one to believe that everything happens for a reason, all you need to do is believe in yourself.
AD: A fellow 12x12er! Hooray! Congrats on the recent book deal with Young Dragon press, too! I can't wait to learn more about the story!
AD: Did you always know you wanted to be an author? Have you explored other paths or had/have other jobs?
NM: I have worked in the legal field since graduating undergrad. I am now a law school graduate preparing for the California bar exam. I have always wanted to be a writer and aspired to be a published author. It wasn’t until the pandemic that life slowed enough for me to really consider taking it seriously. Now, I divide my time to both study and develop my craft. Writing is something I look forward to doing for the rest of my life.
AD: Good luck as you prepare for the California bar exam! Exciting stuff! And yes, a bright spot to this crazy pandemic has been time to pause and reflect often leading to unexpected and welcoming surprises.
"The biggest challenge I’ve faced is my own self-doubt. I have learned that by leaning in and actively participating in workshops, webinars and critique groups I can gain perspective and enjoy the process."
AD: What topics or themes do you tend to focus on in your writing? Favorite genres you like to write in or favorite techniques?
NM: I enjoy writing dual language fiction. Spanish was my first language. I learned English predominantly in grade school. Growing up, I had the insecurity of reading aloud. When writing, I keep my younger self in mind. I aim to inspire children from any background to enjoy reading.
AD: Breaking into the publishing industry is not easy! What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced thus far? What have you done to persevere?
NM: The biggest challenge I’ve faced is my own self-doubt. I have learned that by leaning in and actively participating in workshops, webinars and critique groups I can gain perspective and enjoy the process.
AD: As creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well. With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing journey?
NM: What I am most proud of thus far on my writing journey is my ability to stay creative. Creativity does not necessarily come easily, but I have learned what inspires me and believe that inspiration is everywhere.
AD: Yes, inspiration is all around! The challenge is to slow down and pay attention!
AD: In a similar vein, what do you feel are your strengths as an author? What makes your writing unique to you?
NM: I believe that my background and experience make my writing unique to me.
NM: I enjoy writing dual language fiction. Spanish was my first language. I learned English predominantly in grade school. Growing up, I had the insecurity of reading aloud. When writing, I keep my younger self in mind. I aim to inspire children from any background to enjoy reading.
AD: Breaking into the publishing industry is not easy! What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced thus far? What have you done to persevere?
NM: The biggest challenge I’ve faced is my own self-doubt. I have learned that by leaning in and actively participating in workshops, webinars and critique groups I can gain perspective and enjoy the process.
AD: As creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well. With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing journey?
NM: What I am most proud of thus far on my writing journey is my ability to stay creative. Creativity does not necessarily come easily, but I have learned what inspires me and believe that inspiration is everywhere.
AD: Yes, inspiration is all around! The challenge is to slow down and pay attention!
AD: In a similar vein, what do you feel are your strengths as an author? What makes your writing unique to you?
NM: I believe that my background and experience make my writing unique to me.
"When writing, I keep my younger self in mind. I aim to inspire children from any background to enjoy reading."
Natalie's writing space. Photo Credit © 2021 Natalie Morales
AD: What inspires your work?
NM: Most of my inspiration comes from people watching and nature. I am also inspired by my family and dogs.
AD: Always a good go-to for inspiration :)
NM: Most of my inspiration comes from people watching and nature. I am also inspired by my family and dogs.
AD: Always a good go-to for inspiration :)
AD: Tell us about your creative process and what you do to keep ideas flowing or what you do when feeling stuck?
NM: I keep a notebook where I jot down any and all ideas. Sometimes I can write out the whole story in one sitting. When I feel stuck, I can get inspired by a note I made in the past, but I am constantly thinking of my next story. If I hit a roadblock, I pivot to the next idea.
AD: What sorts of things have been most integral in your growth as an author?
NM: Being an active SCBWI and Julie Hedlund’s 12x12 challenge member has been integral to my growth as an author. I would also attribute by growth to my wonderful critique partners who make for wonderful teachers.
AD: Critique partners are the best!!
AD: What advice do you have for fellow kidlit creatives?
NM: The one piece of advice that I would give a fellow kidlit creative is to enjoy the process. The journey is almost sweeter than any result. Having the opportunity to be creative is a gift.
AD: Such great advice! It's easy to get caught up in the long game and get frustrated but we must continue to have fun and enjoy the process otherwise what's the point, right?!? :)
NM: I keep a notebook where I jot down any and all ideas. Sometimes I can write out the whole story in one sitting. When I feel stuck, I can get inspired by a note I made in the past, but I am constantly thinking of my next story. If I hit a roadblock, I pivot to the next idea.
AD: What sorts of things have been most integral in your growth as an author?
NM: Being an active SCBWI and Julie Hedlund’s 12x12 challenge member has been integral to my growth as an author. I would also attribute by growth to my wonderful critique partners who make for wonderful teachers.
AD: Critique partners are the best!!
AD: What advice do you have for fellow kidlit creatives?
NM: The one piece of advice that I would give a fellow kidlit creative is to enjoy the process. The journey is almost sweeter than any result. Having the opportunity to be creative is a gift.
AD: Such great advice! It's easy to get caught up in the long game and get frustrated but we must continue to have fun and enjoy the process otherwise what's the point, right?!? :)
AD: Where can readers find out more about you and your work? Please include links to any social media, websites, blogs, etc.
www.nataliemoralesbooks.com
https://twitter.com/NMoralesBooks
https://www.facebook.com/NatalieMBooks
https://www.instagram.com/nmoralesbooks/
AD: Thank you so much for stopping by the blog, Natalie, and congrats again on your book deal! Hopefully many more to come! I appreciate you sharing a bit about yourself and contributing to the Rising Stars in Kidlit series We can't wait to read your stories! Feel free to drop a comment below to support Natalie and her work, and be sure to subscribe so you don't miss out and follow along on Twitter at #RisingStarsinKidlit!
www.nataliemoralesbooks.com
https://twitter.com/NMoralesBooks
https://www.facebook.com/NatalieMBooks
https://www.instagram.com/nmoralesbooks/
AD: Thank you so much for stopping by the blog, Natalie, and congrats again on your book deal! Hopefully many more to come! I appreciate you sharing a bit about yourself and contributing to the Rising Stars in Kidlit series We can't wait to read your stories! Feel free to drop a comment below to support Natalie and her work, and be sure to subscribe so you don't miss out and follow along on Twitter at #RisingStarsinKidlit!
| | Hi! I'm Amanda! Amanda Davis is a teacher, artist, writer, and innovator who uses her words and pictures to light up the world with kindness. When she’s not busy creating, you can find her sipping tea, petting dogs, and exploring the natural wonders of The Bay State with her partner and rescue pup, Cora. Amanda is represented by Jennifer Unter of The Unter Agency. Her debut picture book, 30,000 STITCHES is available NOW wherever books are sold! |
Artwork © 2021 Amanda Davis Art
Rising Stars continues in 2021! Hooray! The goal of this series is to highlight my fellow kidlit creators who are working their tails off to birth their beautiful book babies into the world. These interviews will cast a light on the wonderful work of these pre-published authors and author-illustrators who are destined to be stars!
Meet Rising Star
Author Lisa Trank
Photo Credit © 2021 Jack Greene Photography
Lisa Trank began writing after many years as a performing artist – an actress and singer – and is happy to bring those years of crafting characters and storytelling into her writing life, as well as in her author consulting work. She’s a member of the Rocky Mountain Chapter of the Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and a former recipient of a Rocky Mountain Women’s Institute Fellowship. Much of her writing focuses on the stories she grew up with as the proud first-generation daughter of immigrants. Her work has been published in the Saturday Evening Post, Jewish Telegraphic Agency, Jerusalem Post, The Israel Times, University of Denver Journal, Salon, Gaia, Tablet, Kveller, Chiseled in Rock, and in a number of anthologies. When not writing, she practices as much yoga as she can and takes long walks in nature. She’s the proud mama of three wonderful adult daughters, dog mom to Callie, and married to poet and photographer Jack Greene. Lisa lives in Longmont, Colorado, with a constant view of the Rocky Mountains.
AD: Let’s start with a speed round…
AD: Okay, now down to the serious stuff….Please dish us the dirt on who you are and your journey into the fabulous world of children’s books. You are also recently agented and looking to get traditionally published. Can you share a bit about how you found your agent match?
LT: As a writer who mostly focuses on Jewish-themed subjects, I was pretty steeped in Holocaust literature. After reading a beautiful but really depressing title, I wanted to bring more joyous and diverse stories that represent much more of the Jewish American and Jewish experience. Writing for kids seemed to be the perfect fit for this shift, and I’m so thrilled I hated that book!
I found my wonderful agent, Jessica Kasmer-Jacobs from the Deborah Harris Agency, through #DVPit on Twitter! She fell in love with my PB and is now shopping it. The experience is wonderful and reminds me of when I went ziplining in Costa Rica. I was terrified of heights, but wanted to set a strong example for our kids, so I went for it! On every turn, there was a moment when I would slow down in the middle and it felt like I was suspended in space, but I always made it to the landing. That’s what it feels like to have an agent submitting my work - exhilarating and scary, but one I ultimately trust and signed up for, so why not go for it??
AD: Yes, it can be a scary new part of the journey but it's amazing to have someone else in your corner who can champion your work! Congrats on finding your match and best of luck with your stories that are out on submission!
- Top three favorite children’s books of all time? Mrs. Katz and Tush, Charlotte’s Web, All in A Kind Family (all of them!)
- Coffee, tea (or neither)? Both, but the day start with dark, strong coffee.
- Where is your safe place? My heart, a yoga mat, writing, singing, and outside in nature.
- Dogs, cats, (or neither)? Both!
- Early bird or night owl? Early bird.
- Three words to describe what it takes to make it in the kidlit world…Chutzpah, generosity, kindness, perseverance, and most of all, hope!
AD: Okay, now down to the serious stuff….Please dish us the dirt on who you are and your journey into the fabulous world of children’s books. You are also recently agented and looking to get traditionally published. Can you share a bit about how you found your agent match?
LT: As a writer who mostly focuses on Jewish-themed subjects, I was pretty steeped in Holocaust literature. After reading a beautiful but really depressing title, I wanted to bring more joyous and diverse stories that represent much more of the Jewish American and Jewish experience. Writing for kids seemed to be the perfect fit for this shift, and I’m so thrilled I hated that book!
I found my wonderful agent, Jessica Kasmer-Jacobs from the Deborah Harris Agency, through #DVPit on Twitter! She fell in love with my PB and is now shopping it. The experience is wonderful and reminds me of when I went ziplining in Costa Rica. I was terrified of heights, but wanted to set a strong example for our kids, so I went for it! On every turn, there was a moment when I would slow down in the middle and it felt like I was suspended in space, but I always made it to the landing. That’s what it feels like to have an agent submitting my work - exhilarating and scary, but one I ultimately trust and signed up for, so why not go for it??
AD: Yes, it can be a scary new part of the journey but it's amazing to have someone else in your corner who can champion your work! Congrats on finding your match and best of luck with your stories that are out on submission!
One of Lisa's safe places is outside in nature. Photo Credit © 2021 Lisa Trank
AD: Did you always know you wanted to be an author? Have you explored other paths or had/have other jobs?
LT: I spent the first part of my career in the performing arts and what I loved most about it was the craft of creating characters and sharing stories. I’ve always worked to support my creative life and have been in marketing, communications, and public relations, most currently helping to support a small charter school in Longmont, Colorado.
AD: What topics or themes do you tend to focus on in your writing? Favorite genres you like to write in or favorite techniques?
LT: I love the grandparent/grandchild dynamic. Having only known one of my grandparents and not during her best time (she was ill with dementia), I have always longed for that intergenerational relationship. I also love to focus on the immigrant experience and what it is like to be Jewish in a small town, all of which are my own experiences. I’m the daughter of two immigrants and both grew up in a small(ish) town with a small Jewish community, and have raised our three daughters in a similar environment.
AD: I totally relate to this. I never knew either of my grandfathers as they died before I was born. I loved spending time with my grandmothers and miss them dearly. I wish I took time to talk to them more about their life experiences. My mother's side is Jewish as well. I would've loved to learn more about their lineage and immigration story, too. It's beautiful that you've been able to capture your personal history and memories in your stories.
LT: I spent the first part of my career in the performing arts and what I loved most about it was the craft of creating characters and sharing stories. I’ve always worked to support my creative life and have been in marketing, communications, and public relations, most currently helping to support a small charter school in Longmont, Colorado.
AD: What topics or themes do you tend to focus on in your writing? Favorite genres you like to write in or favorite techniques?
LT: I love the grandparent/grandchild dynamic. Having only known one of my grandparents and not during her best time (she was ill with dementia), I have always longed for that intergenerational relationship. I also love to focus on the immigrant experience and what it is like to be Jewish in a small town, all of which are my own experiences. I’m the daughter of two immigrants and both grew up in a small(ish) town with a small Jewish community, and have raised our three daughters in a similar environment.
AD: I totally relate to this. I never knew either of my grandfathers as they died before I was born. I loved spending time with my grandmothers and miss them dearly. I wish I took time to talk to them more about their life experiences. My mother's side is Jewish as well. I would've loved to learn more about their lineage and immigration story, too. It's beautiful that you've been able to capture your personal history and memories in your stories.
AD: Breaking into the publishing industry is not easy! What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced thus far? What have you done to persevere?
LT: My years in theater certainly prepared me for the long game that the world of publishing can be, as well as how to deal with rejection. The biggest challenge is breaking through to the first book deal! A great teacher once told me that every rejection is one step closer to publication and I don’t take it personally when a work is passed on. I’m not saying it doesn’t sting, but I believe in my writing and continue onward. I also find that if I’m shopping a full manuscript, working on new projects keeps me balanced in the present moment.
AD: As creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well. With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing journey?
LT: Showing up to the work on the bad days, when I’d much rather be watching home improvement shows, or playing with our dog. I don’t really think of myself in terms of accomplishments - my life is really beautiful, from a long and passionate marriage, to three amazing kids, to good health, and living close to nature. Getting books published and into the hands of kids will be amazing and kind of like a cherry on top of an already delicious sundae.
AD: Yes! I love that comparison! Totally like a cherry on top of a sundae! A very, very yummy sundae :)
LT: My years in theater certainly prepared me for the long game that the world of publishing can be, as well as how to deal with rejection. The biggest challenge is breaking through to the first book deal! A great teacher once told me that every rejection is one step closer to publication and I don’t take it personally when a work is passed on. I’m not saying it doesn’t sting, but I believe in my writing and continue onward. I also find that if I’m shopping a full manuscript, working on new projects keeps me balanced in the present moment.
AD: As creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well. With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing journey?
LT: Showing up to the work on the bad days, when I’d much rather be watching home improvement shows, or playing with our dog. I don’t really think of myself in terms of accomplishments - my life is really beautiful, from a long and passionate marriage, to three amazing kids, to good health, and living close to nature. Getting books published and into the hands of kids will be amazing and kind of like a cherry on top of an already delicious sundae.
AD: Yes! I love that comparison! Totally like a cherry on top of a sundae! A very, very yummy sundae :)
Lisa's pup Callie! Photo Credit © 2021 Lisa Trank
AD: In a similar vein, what do you feel are your strengths as an author? What makes your writing unique to you?
LT: I write with humor and heart. I’m not afraid to go deep into the emotion of a moment, a relationship, or a situation AND I love to laugh, or find the humor in even dark moments.
AD: What inspires your work?
LT: My dad, who escaped Nazi Europe at 16, lost his mother, youngest brother, and was separated from most of his siblings for decades. Despite this, he built a life filled with hope and determination and taught me to appreciate who I have in my life, not the material things - although he liked those, too. My kids inspire me and our world inspires me, again, even with so much pain and suffering.
AD: Wow! What an amazing story, Lisa! Your father sounds like an incredible man. It takes a lot of courage to continue to look for hope and positivity after experiencing such dark and difficult times. I see where you get your own courage to "go deep" from.
AD: Tell us about your creative process and what you do to keep ideas flowing or what you do when feeling stuck?
LT: Most mornings, I wake up at 5:30 am, feed the dog and make my coffee. I plop down on the recliner in the den and just start pecking away at the keyboard. I guess you could call me a pantser, but I think that term gets a bad rap - I like to consider myself an intuitive, empathic writer and love to enter into the emotional layering of a story. I keep a notebook by me to scribble down all the ideas that pop up. I find when I’m writing, the creative energy keeps flowing and I don’t want to be distracted, but I also want to find a way to honor those other beautiful ideas. When I get stuck, I take a walk, a hot shower, do yoga, move my body. I try to not get stressed about it because life is stressful enough as it is and I want to create from a place of mindful relaxation and joy. That’s why I love writing in the morning because my mind is softer - the day and all that goes with it hasn’t taken over.
LT: I write with humor and heart. I’m not afraid to go deep into the emotion of a moment, a relationship, or a situation AND I love to laugh, or find the humor in even dark moments.
AD: What inspires your work?
LT: My dad, who escaped Nazi Europe at 16, lost his mother, youngest brother, and was separated from most of his siblings for decades. Despite this, he built a life filled with hope and determination and taught me to appreciate who I have in my life, not the material things - although he liked those, too. My kids inspire me and our world inspires me, again, even with so much pain and suffering.
AD: Wow! What an amazing story, Lisa! Your father sounds like an incredible man. It takes a lot of courage to continue to look for hope and positivity after experiencing such dark and difficult times. I see where you get your own courage to "go deep" from.
AD: Tell us about your creative process and what you do to keep ideas flowing or what you do when feeling stuck?
LT: Most mornings, I wake up at 5:30 am, feed the dog and make my coffee. I plop down on the recliner in the den and just start pecking away at the keyboard. I guess you could call me a pantser, but I think that term gets a bad rap - I like to consider myself an intuitive, empathic writer and love to enter into the emotional layering of a story. I keep a notebook by me to scribble down all the ideas that pop up. I find when I’m writing, the creative energy keeps flowing and I don’t want to be distracted, but I also want to find a way to honor those other beautiful ideas. When I get stuck, I take a walk, a hot shower, do yoga, move my body. I try to not get stressed about it because life is stressful enough as it is and I want to create from a place of mindful relaxation and joy. That’s why I love writing in the morning because my mind is softer - the day and all that goes with it hasn’t taken over.
Lisa's writing studio. Photo Credit © 2021 Lisa Trank
AD: What sorts of things have been most integral in your growth as an author?
LT: Reading, reading, reading! Being an active member of SCBWI, specifically our Rocky Mountain Chapter. Taking workshops and learning from others. I was lucky enough to go to The Highlights Foundation a few years ago and cannot wait to go back. I definitely believe in investing in my craft and budget every year for conferences, workshops, etc. I also joined a small critique group, which is a blast!
AD: What advice do you have for fellow kidlit creatives?
LT: Trust your voice and let it emerge! Reach out and connect with other writers and illustrators. One of my dearest writing pals is someone I sat next down next to at a conference three years ago and we started talking and haven’t stopped! Get involved in your local SBCWI chapter and join a critique group. Writing is a lonely art and the support and connection make it easier to bear!
LT: Reading, reading, reading! Being an active member of SCBWI, specifically our Rocky Mountain Chapter. Taking workshops and learning from others. I was lucky enough to go to The Highlights Foundation a few years ago and cannot wait to go back. I definitely believe in investing in my craft and budget every year for conferences, workshops, etc. I also joined a small critique group, which is a blast!
AD: What advice do you have for fellow kidlit creatives?
LT: Trust your voice and let it emerge! Reach out and connect with other writers and illustrators. One of my dearest writing pals is someone I sat next down next to at a conference three years ago and we started talking and haven’t stopped! Get involved in your local SBCWI chapter and join a critique group. Writing is a lonely art and the support and connection make it easier to bear!
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Some of Lisa's favorite things! Flowers and food can always brighten a mood :) Photo Credit © 2021 Lisa Trank
AD: Where can readers find out more about you and your work?
LT: Thank you for asking!
Website: www.lisatrank.com
Twitter: @ltrank
FB: https://www.facebook.com/lisatrankauthor
IG: @lisatrankwriter
LT: Thank you for asking!
Website: www.lisatrank.com
Twitter: @ltrank
FB: https://www.facebook.com/lisatrankauthor
IG: @lisatrankwriter
AD: Thank you so much for stopping by the blog, Lisa, and congrats again on signing with Jessica! I appreciate you sharing a bit about yourself and contributing to the Rising Stars in Kidlit series We can't wait to read your stories! I look forward to getting a sneak peek into your Jewish history and learning more about your life experiences through your words. Feel free to drop a comment below to support Lisa and her work, and be sure to subscribe so you don't miss out and follow along on Twitter at #RisingStarsinKidlit!
| | Hi! I'm Amanda! Amanda Davis is a teacher, artist, writer, and innovator who uses her words and pictures to light up the world with kindness. When she’s not busy creating, you can find her sipping tea, petting dogs, and exploring the natural wonders of The Bay State with her partner and rescue pup, Cora. Amanda is represented by Jennifer Unter of The Unter Agency. Her debut picture book, 30,000 STITCHES is available NOW wherever books are sold! |
Artwork © 2021 Amanda Davis Art
Rising Stars continues in 2021! Hooray! The goal of this series is to highlight my fellow kidlit creators who are working their tails off to birth their beautiful book babies into the world. These interviews will cast a light on the wonderful work of these pre-published authors and author-illustrators who are destined to be stars!
Meet Rising Star
Author Daniela Ramirez
Photo Credit © 2021 Daniela Ramirez
Daniela Ramirez writes picture books and middle grade novels with a passion for storytelling. Daniela is Mexican American and excited to share her culture. She loves writing latinx characters and wishes to inspire her own children. When she’s not writing you can find her chasing her little ones, dancing in the kitchen and dreaming of the mountains. Daniela is married to her college sweetheart and is a military spouse. She currently lives in Florida. Daniela Ramirez is represented by Charlotte Wenger of Prospect Agency.
AD: Hi Daniela! I'm so excited to have you on the blog today. You had an exciting moment in your writing career happen earlier this year when you connected with your now agent, Charlotte Wenger of Prospect Literary. Can you tell us a little bit more about this experience and what's next now that you've landed an agent?
DR: Hi Amanda! Yes, I signed with Charlotte Wenger of Prospect Agency in Jan 2021, and I’m beyond thrilled to be working with her! I learned about a writing conference on Twitter called, Writing Day Workshop. Due to the pandemic, it was all being held online, including one-on-one pitch sessions with agents. I had been querying for a few months already and figured why not. I was so excited to pitch to Charlotte, I was very interested in her experience as an editor and her MSWL! We had our 15-minute zoom session, and she requested my work! Working with Charlotte is such an incredible time in my writing life, and I can’t wait until my work is out in the world.
AD: That's amazing! Congratulations to you and Charlotte! I actually signed with my current agent, Jennifer Unter at the virtual Boston Writing Day Workshop, too! I've met some other wonderful agents at that conference as well. How funny! Goes to show that taking a risk and putting yourself out there to pitch your work can in fact lead to meaningful connections! Hooray to the Writing Day Workshops! Can't wait to see what's next for you!
DR: Hi Amanda! Yes, I signed with Charlotte Wenger of Prospect Agency in Jan 2021, and I’m beyond thrilled to be working with her! I learned about a writing conference on Twitter called, Writing Day Workshop. Due to the pandemic, it was all being held online, including one-on-one pitch sessions with agents. I had been querying for a few months already and figured why not. I was so excited to pitch to Charlotte, I was very interested in her experience as an editor and her MSWL! We had our 15-minute zoom session, and she requested my work! Working with Charlotte is such an incredible time in my writing life, and I can’t wait until my work is out in the world.
AD: That's amazing! Congratulations to you and Charlotte! I actually signed with my current agent, Jennifer Unter at the virtual Boston Writing Day Workshop, too! I've met some other wonderful agents at that conference as well. How funny! Goes to show that taking a risk and putting yourself out there to pitch your work can in fact lead to meaningful connections! Hooray to the Writing Day Workshops! Can't wait to see what's next for you!
Alrighty, let's hop into our interview so we can get to know more about you and your work. Let’s start with a speed round…
- Top three favorite children’s books of all time? Evelyn del Rey Is Moving Away by Meg Medina and Sonia Sanchez, The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate and Patricia Castelao, and With The Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo.
- Coffee, tea (or neither)? Tea. I love tea while I write!
- Where is your safe place? With my husband in the mountains.
- Dogs, cats, (or neither)? Dogs! The MC of my MG novel was inspired by my late beagle. There is nothing like the love and friendship of an amazing pet!
- Early bird or night owl? It depends on what kind of day I’ve had with my kiddos. Sometimes I find the energy to write after they go to bed.
- Three words to describe what it takes to make it in the kidlit world…community, practice, and believing.
Daniela's love and happy place in the mountains. Photo Credit © 2021 Daniela Ramirez
Okay, now down to the serious stuff….
AD: Please dish us the dirt on who you are and your journey into the fabulous world of children’s books.
DR: I’m a military spouse, stay at home mama and writer. I write PB and MG novels. I’m originally from Texas but thanks to the military I have called many places home in my life. I was a military kid myself growing up. Writing books has been a lifelong dream of mine, and I am so excited that it is finally happening. Everything changed for my writing career when I joined SCBWI over 3 years ago. I met the most amazing friends and mentor. Working with critique partners and groups has been so valuable to me. Connecting with the Latinx kidlit community has been such a gift!
AD: Community is KEY!! :)
AD: Please dish us the dirt on who you are and your journey into the fabulous world of children’s books.
DR: I’m a military spouse, stay at home mama and writer. I write PB and MG novels. I’m originally from Texas but thanks to the military I have called many places home in my life. I was a military kid myself growing up. Writing books has been a lifelong dream of mine, and I am so excited that it is finally happening. Everything changed for my writing career when I joined SCBWI over 3 years ago. I met the most amazing friends and mentor. Working with critique partners and groups has been so valuable to me. Connecting with the Latinx kidlit community has been such a gift!
AD: Community is KEY!! :)
AD: Did you always know you wanted to be an author? Have you explored other paths or had/have other jobs?
DR: I have but it wasn’t something that I was very confident about growing up. I was not a strong reader. I remember our family trips to the library where my big sister would check out a mountain of books and I would check out movies-haha. I had a hard time learning how to read and I’m thankful my parents got me the extra help I needed. It took time to gain my reading confidence but once I did, there was no looking back. Stories are such a part of me now and stay with me. As a kid reading good books and my first writing assignments are where I felt seen and understood. My hope is that my stories can do the same for young readers, especially Latinx kids. I never saw myself in books growing up. I’m so thankful to all the amazing Latinx creators out there, like Meg Medina, Matt de la Pena and NoNieqa Ramos, because now my kids are getting to see themselves. And that is so powerful!
In college I studied Sociology. Before I had my kids, I worked for a nonprofit and as a military civilian. Writing was always in my heart. I would gather story ideas and tell my husband that one day I would write them. My motivation for my writing really changed after becoming a Mama. My heart was on fire to make my dreams come true, inspire my kiddos and help make the world a better place for my little loves.
AD: Your journey is so inspiring, Daniela! From a hesitant reader to now a writer yourself, you are living out your heart's passion and desires. I love that you strive to make the world a better place through your stories and help children feel seen and understood through your work.
DR: I have but it wasn’t something that I was very confident about growing up. I was not a strong reader. I remember our family trips to the library where my big sister would check out a mountain of books and I would check out movies-haha. I had a hard time learning how to read and I’m thankful my parents got me the extra help I needed. It took time to gain my reading confidence but once I did, there was no looking back. Stories are such a part of me now and stay with me. As a kid reading good books and my first writing assignments are where I felt seen and understood. My hope is that my stories can do the same for young readers, especially Latinx kids. I never saw myself in books growing up. I’m so thankful to all the amazing Latinx creators out there, like Meg Medina, Matt de la Pena and NoNieqa Ramos, because now my kids are getting to see themselves. And that is so powerful!
In college I studied Sociology. Before I had my kids, I worked for a nonprofit and as a military civilian. Writing was always in my heart. I would gather story ideas and tell my husband that one day I would write them. My motivation for my writing really changed after becoming a Mama. My heart was on fire to make my dreams come true, inspire my kiddos and help make the world a better place for my little loves.
AD: Your journey is so inspiring, Daniela! From a hesitant reader to now a writer yourself, you are living out your heart's passion and desires. I love that you strive to make the world a better place through your stories and help children feel seen and understood through your work.
"My stories focus on love and family, the ones we are born into and the ones we choose for ourselves."
AD: What topics or themes do you tend to focus on in your writing? Favorite genres you like to write in?
DR: My stories focus on love and family, the ones we are born into and the ones we choose for ourselves. I feel like all of my stories simply show Latinx joy. Since I moved to many places as a kid and now as an adult, I explore the theme of change in my writing a lot. I really enjoy sharing my culture and windows into my own family experience as well. My PBs really tune into those fun family moments.
My MG novel, which I am currently revising, is a contemporary fantasy but still has core themes of love and belonging. I love writing fantasy. I will forever love the idea of magic being around the corner and adventure waiting for me.
AD: What a beautiful reminder that families can take all shapes and forms. Magic and wonder in the world is something we can always use a bit more of in our lives!
Daniela's hiking serves as inspiration for her novel writing. Photo Credit © 2021 Daniela Ramirez
AD: Breaking into the publishing industry is not easy! What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced thus far? What have you done to persevere?
DR: For me, it’s about not getting discouraged and to keep growing as a writer. It has taken time to learn that my writing process needs time and I have to give myself that space. I am always grateful to my husband for giving me this reminder, especially on the days where balancing motherhood and writing can feel like a lot. Also, big shout out to my great mentors and writing friends who always give me support and encouragement.
Being connected to my writing and books is important to me. When I have had stages where I was not writing regularly, like two years ago we were moving across the country and I was pregnant, a close mentor of mine encouraged me to keep reading and honor the chapter that my life was currently in. That time I gave myself helped my creativity and gave me the inspiration to write PB!
AD: This last part really resonates with me, Daniela. There have been periods of time in my own life recently where I haven't been focusing on my writing or creating regularly. It's easy to get down on ourselves because of this or feel like we need to be producing all the time. Thanks for the reminder to honor where we are at, in the moment, because usually, that's exactly where we are supposed to be.
AD: As creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well. With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing journey?
DR: I would have to say deciding to write PB too! I just jumped into an idea one day and drafted it. Then told myself I have a lot to learn and got a bunch of craft books. It has really challenged me as a writer, but I feel like learning to write PB has improved my writing overall and I even see it when I write MG now too.
AD: Congrats on diving into PBs! Continuing to challenge ourselves with new ideas, forms, or projects is what will enable us to grow and develop. Lean into the discomfort!
DR: For me, it’s about not getting discouraged and to keep growing as a writer. It has taken time to learn that my writing process needs time and I have to give myself that space. I am always grateful to my husband for giving me this reminder, especially on the days where balancing motherhood and writing can feel like a lot. Also, big shout out to my great mentors and writing friends who always give me support and encouragement.
Being connected to my writing and books is important to me. When I have had stages where I was not writing regularly, like two years ago we were moving across the country and I was pregnant, a close mentor of mine encouraged me to keep reading and honor the chapter that my life was currently in. That time I gave myself helped my creativity and gave me the inspiration to write PB!
AD: This last part really resonates with me, Daniela. There have been periods of time in my own life recently where I haven't been focusing on my writing or creating regularly. It's easy to get down on ourselves because of this or feel like we need to be producing all the time. Thanks for the reminder to honor where we are at, in the moment, because usually, that's exactly where we are supposed to be.
AD: As creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well. With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing journey?
DR: I would have to say deciding to write PB too! I just jumped into an idea one day and drafted it. Then told myself I have a lot to learn and got a bunch of craft books. It has really challenged me as a writer, but I feel like learning to write PB has improved my writing overall and I even see it when I write MG now too.
AD: Congrats on diving into PBs! Continuing to challenge ourselves with new ideas, forms, or projects is what will enable us to grow and develop. Lean into the discomfort!
AD: In a similar vein, what do you feel are your strengths as an author? What makes your writing unique to you?
DR: I love getting to the heart of my stories. Typically, when I start drafting a new story idea, the heart of the story comes to me first and I build around that concept. As I revise, it serves as my guiding voice and motivation. As a reader I love when books impact me emotionally and enjoy being invested in characters. That is exactly what I try to do in my writing!
AD: What inspires your work?
DR: My children, experiencing the world through their eyes fuels my creativity and fills my mama heart. My own childhood was spent moving around, being the new kid and making new friends. As an adult I still do this but trust me it is so much easier as a kid. I’m inspired by all creativity! The kidlit community is so helpful and generous, that has been such an inspiration to me.
DR: I love getting to the heart of my stories. Typically, when I start drafting a new story idea, the heart of the story comes to me first and I build around that concept. As I revise, it serves as my guiding voice and motivation. As a reader I love when books impact me emotionally and enjoy being invested in characters. That is exactly what I try to do in my writing!
AD: What inspires your work?
DR: My children, experiencing the world through their eyes fuels my creativity and fills my mama heart. My own childhood was spent moving around, being the new kid and making new friends. As an adult I still do this but trust me it is so much easier as a kid. I’m inspired by all creativity! The kidlit community is so helpful and generous, that has been such an inspiration to me.
"Notebooks, pens, and Post It’s are my love language."
AD: Tell us about your creative process and what you do to keep ideas flowing or what you do when feeling stuck?
DR: For me it’s about pockets of time that I can find through out the day. I love writing by hand especially when I’m drafting a PB or working on an outline. Notebooks, pens, and Post It’s are my love language. Moving my body and getting out into nature with my kids really helps my creativity, so I try to do that every day. I love to listen to writing podcasts while I walk and recently, I have been enjoying Las Musas podcast! I feel like staying in touch with the writing world really helps to keep me connected. I was a part of the Highlights Latinx Symposium last year and that really motivated me.
When I am stuck, I will walk away from it and work on something else or listen to good music. It usually comes to me while doing the dishes and singing along to Selena. Also voice memos on my phone are life savers for those moments where I can’t get to my notebook or have a kid on my hip.
AD: I love that you enjoy writing by hand. There's something special about putting the pen or pencil to paper. Sometimes it can just flow out! I love walking and podcast listening, too! I'll have to check out Las Musas!
DR: For me it’s about pockets of time that I can find through out the day. I love writing by hand especially when I’m drafting a PB or working on an outline. Notebooks, pens, and Post It’s are my love language. Moving my body and getting out into nature with my kids really helps my creativity, so I try to do that every day. I love to listen to writing podcasts while I walk and recently, I have been enjoying Las Musas podcast! I feel like staying in touch with the writing world really helps to keep me connected. I was a part of the Highlights Latinx Symposium last year and that really motivated me.
When I am stuck, I will walk away from it and work on something else or listen to good music. It usually comes to me while doing the dishes and singing along to Selena. Also voice memos on my phone are life savers for those moments where I can’t get to my notebook or have a kid on my hip.
AD: I love that you enjoy writing by hand. There's something special about putting the pen or pencil to paper. Sometimes it can just flow out! I love walking and podcast listening, too! I'll have to check out Las Musas!
Daniela sneaking in some afternoon writing time during nap time :) Photo Credit 2021 Daniela Ramirez
AD: What sorts of things have been most integral in your growth as an author?
DR: Community and honestly just writing regularly. I know now that it takes time for my writing to form and to get to a good place but in order to do that I have to WRITE! Some days are good writing days and some days it’s just about getting the words on the page.
I try to invest my time into my craft as well, I’m always on the lookout for new classes or books to help me grow. I enjoy all classes I have ever taken with SCBWI. Also, this year I took a fantastic class with Nina LaCour called Projects & Practice. Recently I attended my first Kweli Color of Children’s Literature Conference, all online and that was one of the most incredible conference experiences I have had. I keep a pile of craft books on my desk to reference. Mentor texts are so helpful to me. I try to read as much as I can in my genre. I read a lot on my phone with the Libby app! Yay for libraries!
AD: What advice do you have for fellow kidlit creatives?
DR: To connect with other writers, find your people and invest in those relationships! I have grown so much as a writer by these beautiful friendships and connections I have in my life now. There is such lovely vulnerability in sharing your work with others and reading theirs, it really does help you grow.
AD: Yes! We're all on this path together. Being vulnerable with one another can help us feel more connected and less alone in this sometimes crazy business of publishing!
AD: Where can readers find out more about you and your work? Please include links to any social media, websites, blogs, etc.
DR: My website writerdaniela.com
I’m on IG @writerdaniela & Twitter @writerdaniela
DR: My website writerdaniela.com
I’m on IG @writerdaniela & Twitter @writerdaniela
AD: Thank you so much for stopping by the blog, Daniela, and congrats again on signing with Charlotte! I appreciate you sharing a bit about yourself and contributing to the Rising Stars in Kidlit series We can't wait to read your fun, familial, love-filled and joy-filled stories! I look forward to getting a sneak peek into your Latinx culture and learning more about your life experiences through your words. Feel free to drop a comment below to support Daniela and her work, and be sure to subscribe so you don't miss out and follow along on Twitter at #RisingStarsinKidlit!
I'd also like to remind everyone that I have my first 30,000 STITCHES virtual celebration happening TOMORROW, 4/27 at The Silver Unicorn Bookstore. The event is FREE and open to the public. I'll be in conversation with New York Say Thank You Foundation Founder and Executive Director, Jeff Parness and Flag Tour Staff members Carolyn and Denny Deters. We'll be chatting all about their journey with the flag and reflecting on the upcoming 20-year remembrance. I hope you can join us! Click here for more info and the link to register!
I'd also like to remind everyone that I have my first 30,000 STITCHES virtual celebration happening TOMORROW, 4/27 at The Silver Unicorn Bookstore. The event is FREE and open to the public. I'll be in conversation with New York Say Thank You Foundation Founder and Executive Director, Jeff Parness and Flag Tour Staff members Carolyn and Denny Deters. We'll be chatting all about their journey with the flag and reflecting on the upcoming 20-year remembrance. I hope you can join us! Click here for more info and the link to register!
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Hi! I'm Amanda!
Amanda Davis is a teacher, artist, writer, and innovator who uses her words and pictures to light up the world with kindness. When she’s not busy creating, you can find her sipping tea, petting dogs, and exploring the natural wonders of The Bay State with her partner and rescue pup, Cora. Amanda is represented by Jennifer Unter of The Unter Agency. Her debut picture book, 30,000 STITCHES hits stores May 4, 2021 with WorthyKids/Hachette Book Group. See below to enter for a chance to win a signed copy of the book |
Artwork © 2021 Amanda Davis Art
Rising Stars continues in 2021! Hooray! The goal of this series is to highlight my fellow kidlit creators who are working their tails off to birth their beautiful book babies into the world. These interviews will cast a light on the wonderful work of these pre-published authors and author-illustrators who are destined to be stars!
Meet Rising Star
Author Ashlee Hashman!
Photo Credit © Hannah Burns
Ashlee Hashman is a children's author who is passionate about creating stories that entertain, inspire, and educate. Her love of numbers prompted her to work as a math teacher, where she discovered how much she loves encouraging young people. Ashlee enjoys all the unique aspects of Midwest living with her husband and toddler. When she's not writing, you can usually find Ashlee giggling at her sister's chickens, rewatching the same two TV shows over and over again, or spending time with her family.
AD: Before we jump in, Ashlee has some recent BIG NEWS to share with us...please spill the beans, Ashlee!!
AH: I am SO EXCITED to say that I'm now represented by the wonderful Elisa Houot from The Seymour Agency!! I'm still in total shock!! Seymour is so collaborative that I feel like I'm not just working with one talented agent, but a whole agency family! I'm incredibly grateful to both Elisa and Marisa for believing in me, and to Joyce who saw my stories early on and said, "I know who would love these!"
AD: Hooray! Congrats, Ashlee! So well-deserved. I can't wait to see what's next for you in this new phase of your journey. Alrighty, let's hop into our interview so we can get to know more about you and your work.
AD: Let’s start with a speed round…
- Top three favorite children’s books of all time? The Bad Seed by Jory John, Mootilda's Bad Mood by Corey Rosen Schwartz and Kirsti Call, The Redwall series by Brian Jacques.
- Coffee, tea (or neither)? Both!
- Where is your safe place? The Jeep with the top down driving back roads.
- Dogs, cats, (or neither)? I love dogs!
- Early bird or night owl?Used to be Early Bird, but now I'm a Whenever-the-Toddler-Is-Sleeping Bird!
- Three words to describe what it takes to make it in the kidlit world…Confidence, flexibility, community.
AD: Okay, now down to the serious stuff….Please dish us the dirt on who you are and your journey into the fabulous world of children’s books.
AH: I am a former math teacher turned stay-at-home mom and kidlit writer. Raised on a small farm in Kansas (that sounds like a cliché beginning to a romance novel?), I settled a whole 30 minutes over the state line into Missouri with my husband and daughter where I still enjoy small-town living, fried food, and being outdoors.
When I'm not wrangling my toddler or writing, I love to play music, re-watch the same TV series over and over (mainly MONK and PARKS AND REC), and read. My favorite genres are historical fiction, mysteries, and romance. For picture books I tend to love laugh-out-loud humor or sweet, whimsical concepts.
AH: I am a former math teacher turned stay-at-home mom and kidlit writer. Raised on a small farm in Kansas (that sounds like a cliché beginning to a romance novel?), I settled a whole 30 minutes over the state line into Missouri with my husband and daughter where I still enjoy small-town living, fried food, and being outdoors.
When I'm not wrangling my toddler or writing, I love to play music, re-watch the same TV series over and over (mainly MONK and PARKS AND REC), and read. My favorite genres are historical fiction, mysteries, and romance. For picture books I tend to love laugh-out-loud humor or sweet, whimsical concepts.
Ashlee's writing buddy! Photo Credit © Ashlee Hashman
I began writing seriously in the kidlit space in January 2020. A new mother, I desperately wanted to have some sort of creative outlet. So, I started writing stories I thought my daughter would love. Since last January, I've written 8 picture books, an MG adventure novel, and began a YA historical romance. Along the way, I've found an amazing community of friends, had a ton of fun, and even placed in a few contests!
AD: Wow, Ashlee! You've been quite busy this past year! Impressive and inspiring!
AD: Wow, Ashlee! You've been quite busy this past year! Impressive and inspiring!
AD: Did you always know you wanted to be an author? Have you explored other paths or had/have other jobs?
AH: My first love has always been STEM. The objective nature of math was a comfort in an unpredictable world. I earned my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in math and went on to teach for several years at the collegiate and high school level.
Ashlee defending her thesis. Photo Credit © Dr. Cynthia Huffman
Until recently, I never considered myself an author. Looking back, though, I see that writing was always part of my life. Essay contests in elementary, songwriting in middle school, journalism in high school, and enough composition and literature classes in college to nearly get me to a second degree in English. My dad said something when I was young that will always stay with me. "Everyone has the potential to be a Da Vinci." Artist, Inventor, Engineer, etc. I didn't ever want to be only a math teacher or only a mother or only an author. I want to be all of those things and more! When I was navigating my intensely "left-brained" courses, I desperately needed the "right-brained" ones to keep a sense of balance. My hope is to always be open to learning something new and keep my left and right brains in sync.
AD: Balance is key, and I think giving both sides of our brain a workout benefits all of our work. I love how you highlight the idea that we can have multiple identities and professions. It's also a reminder that it's never too late to explore other passions or take on new challenges.
AD: Balance is key, and I think giving both sides of our brain a workout benefits all of our work. I love how you highlight the idea that we can have multiple identities and professions. It's also a reminder that it's never too late to explore other passions or take on new challenges.
AD: What topics or themes do you tend to focus on in your writing? Favorite genres you like to write in?
AH: I think the most common word I get in response to my picture books is "whimsical". I love to take obscure ideas and tell stories from a different point of view, whether that means using the setting as the protagonist or creating a story based on lines from my favorite 80's song. All things STEM are my jam, so that often shows up somewhere in my work. I love having several different projects going at once so I can focus on whatever is pulling at me any given day. That means I usually jump around between PB, MG, and YA several times throughout the week.
AD: Oooo I can't wait to read one of your 80's song inspired stories! How fun! Maybe a STEM/80's song mash-up? :)
AH: I think the most common word I get in response to my picture books is "whimsical". I love to take obscure ideas and tell stories from a different point of view, whether that means using the setting as the protagonist or creating a story based on lines from my favorite 80's song. All things STEM are my jam, so that often shows up somewhere in my work. I love having several different projects going at once so I can focus on whatever is pulling at me any given day. That means I usually jump around between PB, MG, and YA several times throughout the week.
AD: Oooo I can't wait to read one of your 80's song inspired stories! How fun! Maybe a STEM/80's song mash-up? :)
Ashlee's study abroad in South Korea. Photo Credit © Ashlee Hashman
AD: Breaking into the publishing industry is not easy! What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced thus far? What have you done to persevere?
AH: I think my biggest obstacle so far has been myself. I've tried to fit stories into a nice formula that magically spits out instant success. As it turns out, writing doesn't work like a math problem!
To help me overcome this tendency, I started purposely avoiding the "list of rules" you're supposed to follow during my drafting process and let my imagination have free rein. Then, when revising, I take a look at all the recommended guidelines and follow as best as I can while remaining true to the story. This adjustment has helped take away a lot of the self-imposed pressure to "get published or you've failed" and just have fun with the stories.
AD: Yes! I'm all about breaking or bending the rules :) If done right, I think that's what can make our stories stand out.
AD: As creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well. With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing journey?
AH: I think I'm most proud of my ability to generate unique ideas. There was a wonderful opportunity several months ago hosted by 389 Literary in which I had the privilege of winning two "above the slush pile" reads from a couple of very kind agents. The feedback I received was encouraging and praised the originality of my writing. It was such a confidence boost for a newer writer!
AD: In a similar vein, what do you feel are your strengths as an author? What makes your writing unique to you?
AH: Some other strengths in my writing are my ability to objectively revise based on critiques (thank you AMAZING CPs!!) and my penchant toward brevity.
AD: I could use some of your brevity. I tend to be more verbose but as with anything else, I think brevity is also a skill that can be learned and sharpened. :)
AD: What inspires your work?
AH: Everything I write has to be either fun or heart-felt (or both)! I want my daughter and the kids reading my stories to feel all the warm fuzzies when they finish my books!
AD: Tell us about your creative process and what you do to keep ideas flowing or what you do when feeling stuck?
AH: To be honest, I haven't found myself getting stuck yet because I have so many different ideas to bounce back and forth between. I generally get ideas from one of two places: contests or my kid.
Contests force me to view the world from different perspectives and jump out of my comfort zone. If you are around kids at all, you have probably also felt that comfort zone stretching. They put such unexpected objects together!
Like, "Look, Mommy, my shopping cart full of llamas just crashed a tower of doughnuts!" And I think to myself, "Ya know...that might actually be a fun story!"
AD: Kids and contests, love it! :)
AD: What sorts of things have been most integral in your growth as an author?
AH: COMMUNITY, COMMUNITY, COMMUNITY!! I seriously don't know where I'd be without all of the incredible people who've encouraged me, instructed me, and challenged me along the way!!
AD: YES! This community is seriously THE BEST! It's filled with so many generous, knowledgeable, and kind people. We are lucky ducks!
AD: What advice do you have for fellow kidlit creatives?
AH: Find your people and dive in head first! I think it's so important to not only take a chance on yourself, but also to take a chance on other people. Send that email! Enter that contest! Like that post! It's all about community, and I've made such amazing friends over the past year by investing in and receiving from other creators.
AD: Invest, receive, repeat! :)
AD: Where can readers find out more about you and your work?
AH: I'd love to connect with you! And thank you, Amanda, for having me! It's been so fun joining you for this series!
Website: https://ashleehashman.wixsite.com/ashleehashman
Twitter: @AshleeHashman
AH: I think my biggest obstacle so far has been myself. I've tried to fit stories into a nice formula that magically spits out instant success. As it turns out, writing doesn't work like a math problem!
To help me overcome this tendency, I started purposely avoiding the "list of rules" you're supposed to follow during my drafting process and let my imagination have free rein. Then, when revising, I take a look at all the recommended guidelines and follow as best as I can while remaining true to the story. This adjustment has helped take away a lot of the self-imposed pressure to "get published or you've failed" and just have fun with the stories.
AD: Yes! I'm all about breaking or bending the rules :) If done right, I think that's what can make our stories stand out.
AD: As creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well. With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing journey?
AH: I think I'm most proud of my ability to generate unique ideas. There was a wonderful opportunity several months ago hosted by 389 Literary in which I had the privilege of winning two "above the slush pile" reads from a couple of very kind agents. The feedback I received was encouraging and praised the originality of my writing. It was such a confidence boost for a newer writer!
AD: In a similar vein, what do you feel are your strengths as an author? What makes your writing unique to you?
AH: Some other strengths in my writing are my ability to objectively revise based on critiques (thank you AMAZING CPs!!) and my penchant toward brevity.
AD: I could use some of your brevity. I tend to be more verbose but as with anything else, I think brevity is also a skill that can be learned and sharpened. :)
AD: What inspires your work?
AH: Everything I write has to be either fun or heart-felt (or both)! I want my daughter and the kids reading my stories to feel all the warm fuzzies when they finish my books!
AD: Tell us about your creative process and what you do to keep ideas flowing or what you do when feeling stuck?
AH: To be honest, I haven't found myself getting stuck yet because I have so many different ideas to bounce back and forth between. I generally get ideas from one of two places: contests or my kid.
Contests force me to view the world from different perspectives and jump out of my comfort zone. If you are around kids at all, you have probably also felt that comfort zone stretching. They put such unexpected objects together!
Like, "Look, Mommy, my shopping cart full of llamas just crashed a tower of doughnuts!" And I think to myself, "Ya know...that might actually be a fun story!"
AD: Kids and contests, love it! :)
AD: What sorts of things have been most integral in your growth as an author?
AH: COMMUNITY, COMMUNITY, COMMUNITY!! I seriously don't know where I'd be without all of the incredible people who've encouraged me, instructed me, and challenged me along the way!!
AD: YES! This community is seriously THE BEST! It's filled with so many generous, knowledgeable, and kind people. We are lucky ducks!
AD: What advice do you have for fellow kidlit creatives?
AH: Find your people and dive in head first! I think it's so important to not only take a chance on yourself, but also to take a chance on other people. Send that email! Enter that contest! Like that post! It's all about community, and I've made such amazing friends over the past year by investing in and receiving from other creators.
AD: Invest, receive, repeat! :)
AD: Where can readers find out more about you and your work?
AH: I'd love to connect with you! And thank you, Amanda, for having me! It's been so fun joining you for this series!
Website: https://ashleehashman.wixsite.com/ashleehashman
Twitter: @AshleeHashman
AD: Of course! Thank YOU for stopping by the blog, Ashlee, and congrats again on signing with Elisa! Thank you so much for sharing a bit about yourself and contributing to the Rising Stars in Kidlit series! We can’t wait to read your fun and heartfelt stories and I'll be holding out hope for that STEM/80's mash-up! Feel free to drop a comment below to support Ashlee and her work, and be sure to subscribe so you don't miss out and follow along on Twitter at #RisingStarsinKidlit!
If you are interested in being featured in the Rising Stars in KidLit series, please complete the following Getting to Know You form to be considered. Thank you!
If you are interested in being featured in the Rising Stars in KidLit series, please complete the following Getting to Know You form to be considered. Thank you!
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Hi! I'm Amanda!
Amanda Davis is a teacher, artist, writer, and innovator who uses her words and pictures to light up the world with kindness. When she’s not busy creating, you can find her sipping tea, petting dogs, and exploring the natural wonders of The Bay State with her partner and rescue pup, Cora. Amanda is represented by Jennifer Unter of The Unter Agency. Her debut picture book, 30,000 STITCHES hits stores May 4, 2021 with WorthyKids/Hachette Book Group. See below to enter for a chance to win a signed copy of the book |
Who Am I?
Amanda Davis is a teacher, artist, writer, and innovator who uses her words and pictures to light up the world with kindness. Amanda is the author of the award-winning picture book, 30,000 Stitches: The Inspiring Story of the National 9/11 Flag, Moonlight Memories (summer, 2023) and a yet to be announced forthcoming title. She also has poetry and illustrations featured in The Writers’ Loft Anthology: Friends & Anemones: Ocean Poems for Children. Amanda has over ten years of experience as a classroom teacher and was selected as Massachusetts Secondary Art Educator of the Year. When she’s not busy creating, you can find her sipping tea, petting dogs, and exploring the natural wonders of The Bay State with her family and her rescue pup, Cora. You can learn more about Amanda at www.amandadavisart.com and on Twitter @amandadavisart and Instagram @amandadavis_art.
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