FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Here are some of the questions that I’m often asked. 

Q:  I have always wanted to write a children’s book.  How do I get started?

A:  1.  The most important thing you can do is join SCBWI (scbwi.org) Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators.  Learn everything you can from their website, especially correct manuscript format.  Go to SCBWI conferences and workshops.  Make contacts in your area and join a critique group with other children’s writers, to get honest feedback on your work.  Family members and friends do not give honest feedback, (except for my wife, who gives feedback that is way too honest.)   Also, before you submit, check out the Chidren’s Writers and Illustrators’ Market, to find out whether your manuscript fits the guidelines for the publisher you’re submitting to. 

Some books that I have found helpful on my journey as a writer:

The Artist’s Way, by Julia Cameron

Writing Down the Bones, by Natalie Goldberg

Fearless Creating, by Eric Maisel

It’s a Bunny Eat Bunny World

Idiot’s Guide to Writing Children’s Books

2.  Read as many children’s books as you can.  Immerse yourself.  Be familiar with the market, past and present.   

3.  Write a little each day.  Writing in the morning helps me get my day off on the write foot.   If you only have 15 minutes a day to write, you’d be surprised how much you can get done in 15 focused minutes. 

Q:  How long did it take to write The Monster Who Ate My Peas?

A:  It took about 4 or 5 months, off and on.  Then after it was accepted by the publisher, I spent many more weeks, here and there, on revisions.