tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76820685393622340722024-03-17T15:59:43.459-07:00Dawn Babb Prochovnic and SmallTalk LearningDawn's thoughts on books, sign language, and early literacy, and a place to explore her love fest with teaching, learning and life. Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.comBlogger272125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-45346963747573910862024-03-14T07:00:00.000-07:002024-03-14T07:00:00.133-07:00Birth Stories for Books: THE PIE THAT MOLLY GREW, by Sue Heavenrich<p>Hello readers! I'm delighted to welcome author, <a href="https://www.sueheavenrich.com/">Sue Heavenrich</a>, to the blog. Sue and I first met when we were in a book launch group together a few years back. It's been exciting to see her continue to welcome new books into the world. Today we'll learn about Sue's path to publication for her latest picture book, <a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-pie-that-molly-grew-sue-heavenrich/19651701?ean=9781534111844">THE PIE THAT MOLLY GREW</a> (illustrated by <a href="https://www.chamisakellogg.com/">Chamisa Kellog</a>, <a href="https://sleepingbearpress.com/shop/show/53558">Sleeping Bear Press</a>, August 2023). </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfkzX6Lzn9iATA84TXQkqaqG6_yuoIXOMEP0cSXrFBV0rkFmtW_uSA7AeWM_q3s3B-W7PbV8LYCmRe0VHiTYEYzUNbrk8VuZ1vMSBc6z_WS6FHQp_vmmPLg-b6dYQHWncwE_u9oN1pRoPnw6vI549t3OnKN95hvfZINgUwi673sb-p1C8gQFRFLQ05xfRX/s1078/Pie%20that%20Molly%20Grew%20Cover.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1078" data-original-width="1078" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfkzX6Lzn9iATA84TXQkqaqG6_yuoIXOMEP0cSXrFBV0rkFmtW_uSA7AeWM_q3s3B-W7PbV8LYCmRe0VHiTYEYzUNbrk8VuZ1vMSBc6z_WS6FHQp_vmmPLg-b6dYQHWncwE_u9oN1pRoPnw6vI549t3OnKN95hvfZINgUwi673sb-p1C8gQFRFLQ05xfRX/w400-h400/Pie%20that%20Molly%20Grew%20Cover.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">by <a href="https://www.sueheavenrich.com/">Sue Heavenrich</a> and <a href="https://www.chamisakellogg.com/">Chamisa Kellog</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>Dawn Prochovnic: Welcome to the blog, Sue. I'm looking forward to learning more about your latest book, <a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-pie-that-molly-grew-sue-heavenrich/19651701?ean=9781534111844">THE PIE THAT MOLLY GREW</a>. </b></p><p><b>You've shared in other <a href="https://frogonablog.net/2023/08/28/interview-alert-sue-heavenrich/">interviews</a> that the line, "This is the seed that Molly sowed" got planted in your head and wouldn't leave until you wrote it down, and that was the seed from which this story eventually grew. You've also shared in another <a href="https://www.mariacmarshall.com/single-post/the-picture-book-buzz-interview-with-sue-heavenrich">interview</a> that an earlier version of this story sat in a drawer for about three years before your agent encouraged you to revise it. I'd like to hear more about how this story tucked away in a drawer caught your agent's attention, and also about the process and timeframe between your agent's nudge to revise and the story that was formulated fully enough to submit to your eventual publisher.</b></p><p><b>Sue Heavenrich</b>: We were having a conversation one day, and my agent asked: hey, do you have any stories hanging out in the back of your file drawer? THE PIE THAT MOLLY GREW was one of those, so I dusted off the folder and read it over. I emailed it to her, and she asked whether I might want to start with the seed (originally I started with the pumpkin). It seems like a no-brainer now, but just changing that one thing made a big difference. I had to rethink word order and find new rhyming words … a challenge, but also the sort of fun a writer relishes. </p><p><b>DP: That's a wonderful behind-the-scenes detail, Sue. It's so true that the right question, or observation, or suggestion can make all the difference in the world. </b></p><p><b>Reflecting on the journey from idea to published book, in addition to what you've already shared, is there any one moment along the way that you credit with opening the door for this particular story to find its way to publication? </b></p><p><b>SH</b>: Finding the right editor for a story is a skill, and I was grateful to have an agent who knew editors who might resonate with my story. She sent it out in February, and by mid-March we had interest.</p><p><b>DP: Wow, that's fantastic, Sue. I'm not surprised. It's a great story.</b></p><p><b>When you compare your path to publication for THE PIE THAT MOLLY GREW to your experience with one of your earlier books, such as <a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/13-ways-to-eat-a-fly-sue-heavenrich/14709440?ean=9781580898904">13 WAYS TO EAT A FLY</a>, what are some of the key similarities and differences in terms of the publication journeys for each and/or the similarities and differences between the editors/publishers that you've worked with on these books?</b></p><p><b>SH</b>: I didn’t have an agent when I submitted 13 WAYS TO EAT A FLY. I had met the editor (Alyssa Mito Pusey at <a href="https://www.charlesbridge.com/collections/all-childrens-books/products/13-ways-to-eat-a-fly">Charlesbridge</a>) at a retreat where she expressed interest in the story. When I submitted it to her, she liked it but something just didn’t click. She invited me to revise and resubmit. That revision process took me three years as I looked for a way to make the original manuscript less “listy” and more fun. I am so thankful that Alyssa was willing to take another look, because we had a good time making that book. I learned so much about the teamwork of publishing with that book.</p><p>My experience with each publishing house has been different – but one thing has remained the same: creating a book is a team effort. The editors, art director, illustrator, publicist … everyone works together to make the vision become a printed reality. </p><p><b>DP: Well said, Sue! That's been my experience as well.</b></p><p><b>You have excellent activity guides for your books that incorporate a variety of different learning extensions and curriculum tie in's, including math tie-in's (perfect for Pi Day, arguably one of the math-iest day of the year!) I'd be interested hearing how your creative process for writing children’s books compares to your creative process for writing supporting materials such as activity guides. What are some of the key similarities and differences? </b></p><p><b>SH</b>: Thank you. I’m glad you like them. The teaching guides grew out of my experiences as a classroom teacher and homeschooling parent. I was always looking for hands-on ways to explore the material in a book. That might have grown out of my own school experiences as a visual-tactile learner with a dash of neurodiversity.</p><p>I started sharing hands-on STEM activities on my blog. My goal was to create a resource for homeschoolers and teachers who might be seeking a fun way to integrate science into their day. Activity guides seem like an extension of that. Developing an activity guide for a book turns out to be every bit as creative as writing the book. Plus it gives me a great excuse to do experiments. My goals are to include activities that connect across the curriculum. I look for ways kids – and teachers – can reuse stuff they might find around the house (or in a recycling bin) and try to include nature activities that can be done in your neighborhood. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtuW1SQaRT6PGbD3sCGO6NKf6FadQNwj5IG0LGdPTDw9-0caFlzf2eaAw4NF6g6pDBx4_1JmTpOeOg7ikRe5zbnnN8spow9103YxE8RzLvJxfHfFeF6wvRRDDSLzRMZZDofKMpTVo7fidbcgqP83sSs5w5I-2zh2_HM1OreSZ6SjYQ2aDRDueNK04z9XaQ/s1000/getting%20pumpkin%20ready%20to%20cook.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtuW1SQaRT6PGbD3sCGO6NKf6FadQNwj5IG0LGdPTDw9-0caFlzf2eaAw4NF6g6pDBx4_1JmTpOeOg7ikRe5zbnnN8spow9103YxE8RzLvJxfHfFeF6wvRRDDSLzRMZZDofKMpTVo7fidbcgqP83sSs5w5I-2zh2_HM1OreSZ6SjYQ2aDRDueNK04z9XaQ/w300-h400/getting%20pumpkin%20ready%20to%20cook.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo of pumpkin getting ready to cook, supplied by Sue Heavenrich</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihYg3ZtbhMtfCqH84vZXMrE6lxj314tFObf7moYPRpVJlhAdkqe0qjrE-nIEHFjo5X51KwvbaUHLb1sDUzG_8ENY03q34X-0iIhq2fMe4OndHBZMssLbwLj6V1B97-kp9IqDMc3URFMX9e4JTI4MnBDS-pNdrbmMSkgE0evalod9YcofsbrpECzlKcXAo3/s1000/Sue%20germinating%20seed.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihYg3ZtbhMtfCqH84vZXMrE6lxj314tFObf7moYPRpVJlhAdkqe0qjrE-nIEHFjo5X51KwvbaUHLb1sDUzG_8ENY03q34X-0iIhq2fMe4OndHBZMssLbwLj6V1B97-kp9IqDMc3URFMX9e4JTI4MnBDS-pNdrbmMSkgE0evalod9YcofsbrpECzlKcXAo3/w300-h400/Sue%20germinating%20seed.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo of seeds germinating, supplied by Sue Heavenrich</td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>SH</b>: Since we’re celebrating Pi Day, I need to make a confession: I am not a math person. I had lots of problems with math as a kid – memorizing math facts was not my strength. Thankfully, I finally made it to geometry and algebra, and they made sense. My kids inherited their “smarty math” genes from their dad (who was a math teacher, one in a family of math teachers…) and I had another chance to learn math when I homeschooled. I love celebrating Pi Day because: Pie! I mean, how can you not like math with a delicious connection? </p><p><b>DP: Agreed! I hope our readers will check out the activity guides on <a href="https://www.sueheavenrich.com/activity-guides.html">your website</a> as soon as they finish reading this interview, Sue. It's packed with Pi Day and other STEM/STEAM activities.</b></p><p><b>On a related note, in addition to writing books for kids, you are an active blogger, hosting your own STEM/STEAM focused blog, <a href="https://archimedesnotebook.blogspot.com/">https://archimedesnotebook.blogspot.com/</a> and a contributor to <a href="https://groggorg.blogspot.com/">GROG blog</a>. How do you balance and manage your time between these competing calls to write?</b></p><p><b>SH</b>: Balance – that’s the thing, isn’t it? I love writing book reviews for my blog and my Wednesday “explore outdoors” features (I think of them as 5-minute nature field trips). And I love contributing to the GROG blog. Over the years I’ve tried different things – adding a Monday author interview feature to my blog, for example – but discovered that I need to keep it simple. Also, when things feel like they’re piling up, I take a break. Some years I take July off from my blog. This winter I took mid-December to mid-January off, so I could work on a project. </p><p><b>DP: I love the idea of 5-minute nature field trips! (And it sounds like you've developed some good techniques to find balance amongst your various creative endeavors.)</b></p><p><b>Before we leave the topic of resources, I also see that THE PIE THAT MOLLY BUILT was featured for a <a href="https://nhsa.org/resource/fall-garden-storytime-recording-2/">Fall Storytime with the National Head Start Association</a>. How did that come to be?</b></p><p><b>SH</b>: I have no idea! It was a complete surprise, and I am so happy they found my book perfect for their program.</p><p><b>DP: What a happy surprise! It's a great feature! </b></p><p><b>If you could go back in time, what would you tell your pre-published self? Or, said another way, what do you know now, that you wished you would have known a bit earlier?</b></p><p><b>SH</b>: Write what you are passionate about. Do it because you love it. PLAY! And when you no longer take joy in your writing, take a break. Do something else that feeds your creative soul. Also, go outside every day and look for beauty in the world: a sunset, a birdsong, the smell of leaves in the fall...</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrMAlKwE_Fd1e-oDkFqDAXu9WdaUQhdSsFRHD3TY4agkY8Fm2ICxIm_K2dWR4pn-wxKA8Lx8ceZQY3L0vJvXbNIj9OqpiqhHOR833HIE4KgWN3wfH0bPj3VUggHDW7SbUTu9jIqWi2dr2wkf2R1kMgzzqb-ttfpGDdx2DN6Dda3byVRvwnHv8rsmJghuvQ/s2896/Sue%20with%20Pie%20That%20Molly%20Grew%20cover.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2512" data-original-width="2896" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrMAlKwE_Fd1e-oDkFqDAXu9WdaUQhdSsFRHD3TY4agkY8Fm2ICxIm_K2dWR4pn-wxKA8Lx8ceZQY3L0vJvXbNIj9OqpiqhHOR833HIE4KgWN3wfH0bPj3VUggHDW7SbUTu9jIqWi2dr2wkf2R1kMgzzqb-ttfpGDdx2DN6Dda3byVRvwnHv8rsmJghuvQ/w400-h348/Sue%20with%20Pie%20That%20Molly%20Grew%20cover.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Author Sue Heavenrich with a Stack of THE PIE THAT MOLLY GREW books</td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>DP: That is wonderful advice, Sue--and it's very apparent in your books and supplementary resources that you do indeed focus on things you are passionate about. Brava!</b></p><p><b>Thanks so much for sharing your Birth Story for THE PIE THAT MOLLY GREW with us, Sue! </b></p><p><b>Readers, the best way to thank an author whose insights have been helpful and/or inspiring to you is to support their work. Buy their books. Request them from your library. Read and share them with others. Sue's books, such as THE PIE THAT MOLLY GREW, are available everywhere books are <a href="https://search.worldcat.org/search?q=au=%22Heavenrich%2C%20Sue%22">borrowed</a> and sold, including <a href="https://bookshop.org/search?keywords=heveanrich">bookshop</a> and your own local, indie bookstore. </b></p><p><b>SH: </b>Thank you for inviting me to join you today. Shall we share a piece of Pi? </p><p><b>DP: Ha-ha! I'd love to! Happy Pi Day, friends!</b></p><p>**********</p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3TgVegSJVWUpUbbct4OYj31dppBEfOnvYXAkPDV6n5_bX0gUiKqUYa6vHndfE_NnNekiA_BLdjdTJ_8pd162h5XWNJVDWZE8YxbTNl81ZYS99jm6cX2-1dcZq9W2ajYZ0SUJ0MfVUEsvyglXvqt8XjPLne7tUTEHkSClPAfP5GVs6FF6tA7g01ZGlK72z/s1500/Sue%20Heavenrich%20author.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3TgVegSJVWUpUbbct4OYj31dppBEfOnvYXAkPDV6n5_bX0gUiKqUYa6vHndfE_NnNekiA_BLdjdTJ_8pd162h5XWNJVDWZE8YxbTNl81ZYS99jm6cX2-1dcZq9W2ajYZ0SUJ0MfVUEsvyglXvqt8XjPLne7tUTEHkSClPAfP5GVs6FF6tA7g01ZGlK72z/s320/Sue%20Heavenrich%20author.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Author, Sue Heavenrich </td></tr></tbody></table>Sue Heavenrich is a curious naturalist and is continually amazed by the diversity of insects and other wild things that visit her garden and hang out in her yard. She followed ants in the desert, tagged bumble bees in the Rockies, and taught science to high-schoolers. After covering environmental and community issues for local papers for a couple decades, Sue traded her reporter’s notebooks for composition books and began writing for children. When not writing, she counts pollinators as a community science volunteer. Every day she looks for beauty in the world around her. <br /><p></p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.sueheavenrich.com/">https://www.sueheavenrich.com/</a></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SueHeavenrichWriter">https://www.facebook.com/SueHeavenrichWriter</a></p><p>Blog: <a href="https://archimedesnotebook.blogspot.com/">https://archimedesnotebook.blogspot.com/</a></p><p>**********</p><p><a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a> is an occasional feature of Dawn Babb Prochovnic's blog. Dawn is a nature enthusiast and award-winning author of multiple picture books including, <i>Lucy's Blooms</i>, <i>Where Does a Cowgirl Go Potty?</i>, <i>Where Does a Pirate Go Potty?</i>, and 16 books in the <i>Story Time With Signs & Rhymes</i> series. Dawn is a contributing author to the award-winning book, <i>Oregon Reads Aloud</i>, and a frequent presenter at schools, libraries, and educational conferences. Contact Dawn using the form at the left, or learn more at <a href="http://www.dawnprochovnic.com">www.dawnprochovnic.com</a>. </p>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-16553463865334159642024-03-05T07:00:00.000-08:002024-03-05T07:00:00.151-08:00Birth Stories for Books: The Joy of Imperfect Love, by Carla Marie Manly, PHD<p>One of the big bonuses of being a children's book author is getting to know other members of the book-writing community and their books. As a result of my affiliation with <a href="https://www.familius.com/">Familius</a>, the publisher of my next scheduled book, I've learned about <a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-joy-of-imperfect-love-carla-marie-manly/20113021?ean=9781641709057">THE JOY OF IMPERFECT LOVE: The Art of Creating Healthy, Securely Attached Relationships</a>, by <a href="https://www.drcarlamanly.com/">Carla Marie Manly, PHD</a> (<a href="https://www.familius.com/?s=manly">Familius</a>, March 2024).</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Kkw3vFIDwtuZbI4T1AWF_HyIhz1clKrRdZA84LBPWdWq4Wo_Olx3s28poDlN9VLxT8HxzwsJOEKrHKbDi-bmAxc-pD0mrlhjxPLX2BAVQ3Axf4uul8kjA0AeVZBUbAxNYmg0msvOmSV6e5hiiIpaURxZhxu82p4m74e04iFIbkRpe2ZqVHMOLOrGcKBV/s2700/joy_imperfect_love_cover_final%20-%20Copy.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2700" data-original-width="1800" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Kkw3vFIDwtuZbI4T1AWF_HyIhz1clKrRdZA84LBPWdWq4Wo_Olx3s28poDlN9VLxT8HxzwsJOEKrHKbDi-bmAxc-pD0mrlhjxPLX2BAVQ3Axf4uul8kjA0AeVZBUbAxNYmg0msvOmSV6e5hiiIpaURxZhxu82p4m74e04iFIbkRpe2ZqVHMOLOrGcKBV/w266-h400/joy_imperfect_love_cover_final%20-%20Copy.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">by <a href="https://www.drcarlamanly.com/">Carla Marie Manly, PHD</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p>I recently received an advanced reader copy of this book, and although I haven't finished reading it yet, I didn't want to wait any longer to share it with you. It's the kind of the book that's packed to the brim with valuable information that's meant to be read and re-read, contemplated and considered, pondered and practiced. </p><p>A few days ago I was chatting with a different author friend of mine about some of the less pleasant aspects of the publishing industry, including some past experiences and interactions that have been hurtful and damaging to my tender heart. Dr. Manly's book, although more specifically directed at helping readers develop healthier loving relationships, is rooted in the importance of loving one's imperfect self. It's a perfect book to read and consider for those of us navigating the book-publishing world, and the imperfect path to publication. </p><p>And with that, I will turn it over to Dr. Carla Marie Manly, for a different sort of <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a> guest post. Instead of sharing with us how this particular book (Dr. Manly's fourth) came to be, Dr. Manly shares with us some of the key concepts in her book, helping each of us journey forward in love, as we bring our imperfect selves to the page day after day after day, in search of our own Birth Stories for Books. </p><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b>6 GEMS OF IMPERFECT LOVE</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">by Carla Marie Manly, PhD</div></div><p>Love—and life—are messy! In a world that focuses on <i>perfection</i>, the concept of <i>imperfect love</i> is the antidote our souls need. Imperfect love allows us to grow and shift for the better by releasing unconscious programming from the past. As we become more self-aware, we can consciously release negative habits and embrace those that bring joy and lasting love. Unlike the myth of perfect, fairytale love, genuine love doesn’t “just happen”; it takes ongoing effort. When we put our energy into loving well (if imperfectly), we foster the emotional connection we crave. </p><p>As a clinical psychologist, I’ve found that our overall well-being is deeply affected by the love we experience. If you are feeling stuck, I invite you to embrace a few of the core concepts of imperfect love to begin your journey into self-discovery, connection, and genuinely loving relationships. </p><p><b>#1—LOVE IS LEARNED</b>: If you didn’t experience unconditional—albeit imperfect—love as a child, healthy love may not be natural for you. We experience love through the love that was modeled for us. We first come to know love by being loved, then by learning to love in return. For better or worse, we are—unless we create a shift—the products of our formative love experiences. If you find yourself getting stuck in blame or shame, use your energy to create positive change. </p><p><b>#2—THE IMPERFECT SELF</b>: Knowing and loving yourself from the inside is the key to imperfect love. Self-awareness fosters self-love; as you appreciate who you are as an individual, the pressure to conform evaporates. By embracing your individuality, your self-esteem blossoms. From this centered place of empowered self-awareness, your imperfect self feels seen and accepted. Allow yourself to practice honoring—rather than rejecting—your imperfections. </p><p><b>#3—SELF-LOVE</b>: Self-love isn’t a given; it is grown on a strong foundation of compassion and self-esteem. Self-love is an equalizer and is available to anyone who fosters positive acceptance and change. Your self-love will grow as you work to hone your strengths and shore up—and accept--your imperfections. Strive to spend a bit of time every day <i>nonjudgmentally</i> noticing thoughts that hold you back from loving yourself well. </p><p><b>#4—LOVE EVOLVES</b>: As you embrace your imperfect self, you’ll discover that imperfect love is not a goal but an evolutionary journey that involves five gifts—your feelings, thoughts, mindsets, energy, and actions. As you intentionally use the imperfect interplay of these five gifts, you will feel more secure, aware, and empowered in all of your relationships. Gently practice noticing and honoring your various emotions as they arise; give them space to be present without judgment. </p><p><b>#5—FRIENDSHIP</b>: Healthy relationships are built on the seven pillars of true friendship—investment, respect, honesty, kindness, compassion, wise acceptance, and shared vulnerabilities. When mutually fostered, these pillars create profound trust and safety. Healthy relationships don’t expect perfection; they ask for conscientious, devoted efforts that create imperfect, authentic love. Pause to notice the people in your life who consistently offer the seven pillars of true friendship. </p><p><b>#6—COMMUNICATION</b>: We experience the bonding power of listening and being heard when we dismantle our defenses and dive into heartfelt, connective communication. And by using the art of healthy conflict, we experience bonding growth. We become more attuned to ourselves and others as we strengthen our communication and conflict resolution skills. In this intentional space, fear recedes as joyful, imperfect love expands. Allow yourself to notice your helpful and unhelpful communication patterns with various people; embrace the patterns that feel connective to you.</p><p>As we discover and embrace the secrets to healthy love for ourselves and others, our lives begin to change. The journey of imperfect love allows you to find—and embrace—the healthy love you crave and deserve. There is no better time than <i>now</i> to bring healthy, genuine love into your world. </p><p>The concepts in this article are based on Dr. Carla Marie Manly’s fourth book, <i>The Joy of Imperfect Love</i>. </p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3zgsqnR6sqBj1AUadvWOEPOPwcMY913B8ai1Hqg9y4Z5t7sBbTNJm2_InDBsZX0QxGAezeb2lOpe8INjDB1Mk2SIz96EqjQC5s8b-_8v93F35OBuOXPE-HNoEOuoHK12eKoLRGludIjVdMvXQnZ592PanMwLJrVBX5YUursfYZql1KZRV6Zt8KgPQ-Duw/s1398/DrManlyHeadshot.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1398" data-original-width="1195" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3zgsqnR6sqBj1AUadvWOEPOPwcMY913B8ai1Hqg9y4Z5t7sBbTNJm2_InDBsZX0QxGAezeb2lOpe8INjDB1Mk2SIz96EqjQC5s8b-_8v93F35OBuOXPE-HNoEOuoHK12eKoLRGludIjVdMvXQnZ592PanMwLJrVBX5YUursfYZql1KZRV6Zt8KgPQ-Duw/s320/DrManlyHeadshot.jpg" width="274" /></a></div>Dr. Carla Marie Manly—clinical psychologist, <i>Imperfect Love</i> podcaster, and author—is based in Sonoma County, California. In addition to her clinical practice focusing on relationships and personal transformation, Dr. Manly is deeply invested in her roles as a consultant and speaker. With a refreshingly direct and honest approach—plus a dose of humor—Dr. Manly enjoys supporting others in the ever-evolving journey of life. Her novel self-development paradigm builds resilience, emotional intelligence, and self-esteem. Highlighting the importance of loving connection, her work also focuses on helping others create deeply connected and satisfying intimate relationships. Working from a transformative model that honors the body-mind-spirit connection, Dr. Manly offers holistic relationship and wellness seminars around the world. Her four captivating books, <i>The Joy of Imperfect Love</i>, <i>Date Smart</i>, <i>Joy from Fear</i>, and <i>Aging Joyfully</i> highlight Dr. Manly’s empowering approach and profound expertise. Dr. Manly’s expertise is also regularly cited in media outlets including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, USA Today, Forbes, Oprah, Newsweek, NBC, HuffPost, Reader’s Digest, Psychology Today, Parade, GQ, Women’s Health, Architectural Digest, Men’s Health, and more. <br /><p></p><p><b>Thanks so much for sharing THE JOY OF IMPERFECT LOVE with us, Dr. Manly! </b></p><p><b>Readers, the best way to thank an author whose insights have been helpful and/or inspiring to you is to support their work. Buy their books. Request them from your library. Read and share them with others. Dr. Carla Marie Manly's books, such as THE JOY OF IMPERFECT LOVE, are available everywhere books are <a href="https://search.worldcat.org/search?q=carla+marie+manly&offset=1">borrowed</a> and sold, including <a href="https://bookshop.org/search?keywords=carla+marie+manly">bookshop</a>, your own local, indie bookstore, and directly from <a href="https://www.familius.com/?s=carla+marie+manly">Familius</a>. </b></p><p>**********</p><p><a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a> is an occasional feature of Dawn Babb Prochovnic's blog. Dawn is an award-winning author of multiple picture books including, <i>Lucy's Blooms</i>, <i>Where Does a Cowgirl Go Potty?</i>, <i>Where Does a Pirate Go Potty?</i>, and 16 books in the <i>Story Time With Signs & Rhymes</i> series. Dawn is a contributing author to the award-winning book, <i>Oregon Reads Aloud</i>, and a frequent presenter at schools, libraries, and educational conferences. Contact Dawn using the form at the left, or learn more at <a href="http://www.dawnprochovnic.com">www.dawnprochovnic.com</a>. </p>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-56615097500283912372024-02-06T14:23:00.000-08:002024-02-06T14:23:00.157-08:00The WRAD Part of the Writing Life, 2024 Edition<p> WRAD 2024 is officially a Wrap! (Well for me at least ... I did my WRAD visits one day early this year!)</p><p><a href="https://www.litworld.org/worldreadaloudday">World Read Aloud Day</a> (WRAD) is a special literacy event that takes place around the globe on the first Wednesday in February each year. It's hosted by <a href="https://www.litworld.org/mission">LitWorld</a>, and originally founded by <a href="https://twitter.com/pamallyn">Pam Allyn</a>. For the past several years, author <a href="https://katemessner.com/zoom-with-an-author-or-illustrator-for-world-read-aloud-day-2024/">Kate Messner creates a space on her website </a>where teachers and librarians can connect with authors and illustrators who are willing to volunteer to offer free virtual book readings to children around the world. It's one of my favorite <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/p/past-events_25.html">book-related events</a> to participate in. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMZXXYS3RlFbprbC_BTMFwAr6DGsA0tz-cnTIokchvfKya3oLT33SlTDfNrE4AvJJXpWP5tOQLBUuuuU4J9Lsmf_8imVIV6FP4yjfNu2QPcAHi0OqefngMsjcyxMA_LPQe8G9j0_eR-Di3Tf_OSPdKsX4cVjy4hmILtfj4trvSVsrYq_kOTpamc6rUYQ/s1024/Dawn%20Babb%20Prochovnic%20WRAD%202023.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMZXXYS3RlFbprbC_BTMFwAr6DGsA0tz-cnTIokchvfKya3oLT33SlTDfNrE4AvJJXpWP5tOQLBUuuuU4J9Lsmf_8imVIV6FP4yjfNu2QPcAHi0OqefngMsjcyxMA_LPQe8G9j0_eR-Di3Tf_OSPdKsX4cVjy4hmILtfj4trvSVsrYq_kOTpamc6rUYQ/w400-h300/Dawn%20Babb%20Prochovnic%20WRAD%202023.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /></div><p>For the past couple of years, I've used a <a href="http://signupgenius.com">Sign-Up Genius</a> to help me coordinate my virtual visits. I also now have a <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdBcuJkfbTRbW9mkSQISCLPeTQJ3QUrQdzHaTaWplwynkw5pg/viewform?usp=sf_link">Google Form</a> for folks who want to be among the first to find out when the scheduling tool is available for next year. </p><p>This year I scheduled visits with eight schools. Even with excellent coordination, it's not unusual that one or more of the schools needs to cancel at the last minute due to weather-related school closures or some other scheduling or technical snafu. Also, some schools that hope to meet with me are unable to match their scheduling needs with my available times, and/or my schedule is full by the time they reach out, or there are members of the learning community who were absent on World Read Aloud Day. </p><p>For these schools (and now for you!) I compile some of my best resources as a stand-in for a real-time virtual author visit. These resources are of course not quite the same as real-time virtual visit, (or a <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/p/school-visits.html">full-length, personalized author visit)</a>, but they do allow young readers to connect with an author in some fashion, in honor of World Read Aloud Day. Please feel welcome to explore and share these resources with your learning community: </p><p>***</p><p>Here is a link to a <a href="https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1uHg87MoKMvfw3lw0wQ87dOMtO1iDpbE9qVfUiY-4lOw/edit?usp=sharing">“Hello” slide deck</a> that I shared with the schools/classrooms that I visited.</p><p>It’s not the same as a real virtual visit, but it will allow your students to connect with me for World Read Aloud Day in some fashion. (The “speaker notes” below each slide provide my general talking points and related resource links.) </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXpZfPPAmKboKMm7t9OKrCnp3MIPjWNQvk9brF1w7Q6nWeChlzm2mT_kH_b-arfNBWqJHFaqpfcw5XRJZV7zi8Wj9CGli4UAY5GA-RIgu9BOWZhHX5Di5CgtW0xgNTvpMO48SE-WBw81mlZlWZC9p7ojzCcoZ28-aQQDt3ZH8tIkyR1Ab6tfmXPG86Gw/s720/Dawn%20Prochovnic%20WRAD%202023%20Hello.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXpZfPPAmKboKMm7t9OKrCnp3MIPjWNQvk9brF1w7Q6nWeChlzm2mT_kH_b-arfNBWqJHFaqpfcw5XRJZV7zi8Wj9CGli4UAY5GA-RIgu9BOWZhHX5Di5CgtW0xgNTvpMO48SE-WBw81mlZlWZC9p7ojzCcoZ28-aQQDt3ZH8tIkyR1Ab6tfmXPG86Gw/w400-h300/Dawn%20Prochovnic%20WRAD%202023%20Hello.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></div><br /></div><br />Speaking of resources, here is the <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/p/resources.html">link to the plethora of Resources tab on my website</a>.<p></p><p>From this landing page, you can access things like: </p><p>1. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/dprochovnic/featured">My YouTube channel</a> with <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dprochovnic/featured">full readings of several of my books</a> including <i><a href="https://youtu.be/ZHKMqFfniAI">Lucy’s Blooms</a></i>, <i><a href="https://youtu.be/vE4zFxjoo2Y">Where Does a Cowgirl Go Potty?</a></i> and <i><a href="https://youtu.be/0M4Wr72RoVo">First Day Jitters</a></i> from the collection of stories in <a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/oregon-reads-aloud-a-collection-of-25-children-s-stories-by-oregon-authors-and-illustrators-smart-reading/9817297?ean=9781513263151"><i>Oregon Reads Aloud</i>.</a> This is where you will also find animated book trailers and companion songs for my three most recent books, as well as some <a href="https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLs4Np20HjD4EmMybL3kDDGyJ8xeRdtCu9">ASL interpreted readings</a> for <i>Lucy’s Blooms</i> and the <a href="https://youtu.be/csoF_xhUTuI">companion song</a>. </p><p>2. Curriculum-Aligned Educators’ Guides for <i><a href="https://dhjhkxawhe8q4.cloudfront.net/west-margin-books-wp/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/29173500/LucysBlooms_BookGuide_FINAL.pdf">Lucy’s Blooms</a></i>, <i><a href="https://dhjhkxawhe8q4.cloudfront.net/west-margin-books-wp/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/25210411/book-guide-Where-Does-a-Cowgirl-go-Potty.pdf ">Where Does a Cowgirl Go Potty?</a></i>, and <i><a href="https://dhjhkxawhe8q4.cloudfront.net/west-margin-books-wp/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/25210414/book-guide-Where-Does-a-Pirate-go-Potty.pdf">Where Does a Pirate Go Potty?</a></i> (All three of the guides include STEM tie-ins, and for my Pirate and Cowgirl books, these guides include Readers' Theatre scripts.)</p><p>3. Lesson Plans for <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2013/04/start-to-finish-story-time-summary-post.html ">Sign Language Story Times</a>, <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2019/04/start-to-finish-story-time-expanded.html">themed enrichment activities</a>, and <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2019/09/talk-like-pirate-day-story-time-lesson.html">fun extras</a> such as Pirate and Cowgirl Name Generators. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNg7Owu68L0IE5hjZZCtfGMF4W1sMLBSbi3aClwolkQ9s_-oJkM-QEjY5kcrozN5eD0Z7AJ_8KSuzbHFVFTmS0ii4NV1I6nNNOtK4gEZeCQ82Tb4D9pyf9hESAF-yV2-EdliS5qRBWkUL3OpG9Bl5cRrYzBnaf8kRnKNVLSgiFC-6NYFwdLI8iHv2qhQ=s1650" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1650" data-original-width="1275" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNg7Owu68L0IE5hjZZCtfGMF4W1sMLBSbi3aClwolkQ9s_-oJkM-QEjY5kcrozN5eD0Z7AJ_8KSuzbHFVFTmS0ii4NV1I6nNNOtK4gEZeCQ82Tb4D9pyf9hESAF-yV2-EdliS5qRBWkUL3OpG9Bl5cRrYzBnaf8kRnKNVLSgiFC-6NYFwdLI8iHv2qhQ=w309-h400" width="309" /></a></div><p>I also have a couple of different “virtual-virtual,” or “self-guided” author visits via Google Slides that you/your students can peruse (the “speaker notes” below each slide provides the talking points I would typically deliver during a school visit): </p><p><b>Write On! Why Writing is (Possibly) the Most Important Thing You’ll Ever Do</b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgfjeGUl1wd71b4CM83zC73N_7RZUhZzq9OnEw9CUZDYvfQh31VlKsk0EM-5J-DXydzv3Sm2F-BQshbW4e6lhVs7v7-E2zLSOAXNov_gkkjujO4OIuh5O87tzyJCLSfbUA0l7GqWVaV7iBdPq4QaONGra2WWO8p8lhDcGuqtCf3E7A4DYilTOdncbiHqQ=s960" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgfjeGUl1wd71b4CM83zC73N_7RZUhZzq9OnEw9CUZDYvfQh31VlKsk0EM-5J-DXydzv3Sm2F-BQshbW4e6lhVs7v7-E2zLSOAXNov_gkkjujO4OIuh5O87tzyJCLSfbUA0l7GqWVaV7iBdPq4QaONGra2WWO8p8lhDcGuqtCf3E7A4DYilTOdncbiHqQ=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>From "Ahoy, Matey! to “Howdy, Pardner!” How to Create Vivid Characters by Giving Each a Unique Voice</b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg88GEQXvoiSvRvDWczcc1_Fvd_6W6ByjRXnrJK6OTphKP8LHVwr-wMRDb2BzuCfBI_oo_rwVY9I2sUACZIEvIfueYIn5MBz5sEz-Efh-3eZ_JEMt5E47GC64gGm5vxJ-5D9e8EVP9nCS5EaoIvYoFsRBBk0Dxz-PDQKX4l6rFQKd6tO_UcKJhQDsAtwg=s960" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg88GEQXvoiSvRvDWczcc1_Fvd_6W6ByjRXnrJK6OTphKP8LHVwr-wMRDb2BzuCfBI_oo_rwVY9I2sUACZIEvIfueYIn5MBz5sEz-Efh-3eZ_JEMt5E47GC64gGm5vxJ-5D9e8EVP9nCS5EaoIvYoFsRBBk0Dxz-PDQKX4l6rFQKd6tO_UcKJhQDsAtwg=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><p>Please reach out to me directly and I would be more than happy to provide links to these virtual visits. </p><p>Once a school or classroom has interacted with one of my books, (via the video story times, and/or virtual workshops on Google Slides on your own), I would be more than happy to respond to written questions from students. How this typically works is that the librarian or classroom teacher assigns a “post visit” writing lesson for the students where they each ask me a question (about my books, or my writing process, or my “office assistant, Pickle, etc.), and then you would deliver the full set of questions to me via postal mail or email (in one batched email from you vs. individual emails from students). After I receive the questions, I will reply to the students with a compilation response that I will deliver to you. Here is a <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/search?q=%22Pickle+the+cat%22">link to some examples</a> of my responses from my interactions with other schools. </p><p>I hope these options are helpful resources. Please feel welcome and encouraged to share them with your families and your colleagues, and please let me know if I can be a resource to you in any other way.</p><p>Warm wishes,</p><p>Dawn</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi27Y-sQBO_CpIsMoXd59AmvXNJr2yDI4X8dra6NK9l9-AroOXKc_yl_wG2b_KEytxM1oymPo1dEy59gAh1mRyWGxxqsqE56zpvopOlxVZPwEc1cJ8fcK84So0F_zPD9CAwDqOJfMaaJ9dnZZebXevDpWTx8d69_YkmyGH9nSnT83jyLhq_H1ojYtbXmhr_/s2130/Screen%20Shot%202024-02-06%20at%2010.52.22%20AM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1208" data-original-width="2130" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi27Y-sQBO_CpIsMoXd59AmvXNJr2yDI4X8dra6NK9l9-AroOXKc_yl_wG2b_KEytxM1oymPo1dEy59gAh1mRyWGxxqsqE56zpvopOlxVZPwEc1cJ8fcK84So0F_zPD9CAwDqOJfMaaJ9dnZZebXevDpWTx8d69_YkmyGH9nSnT83jyLhq_H1ojYtbXmhr_/w400-h226/Screen%20Shot%202024-02-06%20at%2010.52.22%20AM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Author Dawn Babb Prochovnic holding her three latest books</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><p>Reach out via email, social media channels such as <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dawnprochovnic/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/dawnprochovnic.bsky.social">Bluesky</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/DawnProchovnic">Twitter/X</a>, or my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DawnProchovnicAuthor">Facebook fan page</a>, or through my contact form (at the left of this post on the desktop version), if you'd like to schedule a time for me to meet with your students in the future! </p><p>For more posts like this, visit <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/04/the-writing-life-summary-post.html">The Writing Life series on my blog</a>.</p>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-13405705388863087082024-01-13T08:00:00.000-08:002024-01-13T09:43:03.308-08:00The Storystorm Challenge Part of the Writing Life<p>One of my favorite and most productive creative rituals is participating in author Tara Lazar's annual <a href="https://taralazar.com/storystorm/">Storystorm</a> challenge, a 31-day, online brainstorming event. This year I had the opportunity to be one of the guest bloggers (on Day #6 to be precise). My post is about repurposing party favors and piñata toys as inspiration for your creative writing practice. You can read the full post <a href="https://taralazar.com/2024/01/06/storystorm-2024-day-6/">here</a>. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmWuiKJ1-4W-pFeI0vnzGngeKiEOFXOMsdUEW0w6s4qMw4eRP9razO6FxO9nafuolX0gqCRVEwiaoh7B6WZSyywOzDqcO8zzUkwtJAVKPrtsyxSEvkeXEiRPslEzs5654j88nhj6oPTjuJvqyFHbyEhyphenhyphenwWOx3qFW8bcEOaoehHlb_fSwJlOBgoCVyDYU0k/s981/storystorm24participantbadgeart.webp" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="981" data-original-width="980" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmWuiKJ1-4W-pFeI0vnzGngeKiEOFXOMsdUEW0w6s4qMw4eRP9razO6FxO9nafuolX0gqCRVEwiaoh7B6WZSyywOzDqcO8zzUkwtJAVKPrtsyxSEvkeXEiRPslEzs5654j88nhj6oPTjuJvqyFHbyEhyphenhyphenwWOx3qFW8bcEOaoehHlb_fSwJlOBgoCVyDYU0k/w400-h400/storystorm24participantbadgeart.webp" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hosted by <a href="https://taralazar.com/">Tara Lazar</a>, Art by <a href="https://www.pippinmathur.com/site/">Courtney Pippen-Mathur</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p>It was such a wonderful feeling to be able to give back to a creative community that has <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/02/the-flurry-of-ideas-part-of-writing-life.html">inspired me for many years</a>. And if YOU find storystorm helpful for boosting your creativity and generating ideas (and l assure you, you will!), I encourage you to show your support for the host, Tara Lazar, by <a href="https://bookshop.org/search?keywords=tara+lazar">purchasing</a> one or more of her books. (If you can't possibly add another book to your bookshelf, you can always purchase a book as a gift for a local teacher or a child in need, or you can check out a copy of one of Tara's books at your <a href="https://search.worldcat.org/search?q=au=%22Lazar%2C%20Tara%22">local library</a>.)</p><p>Something that really stood out for me via the experience of participating in storystorm as a guest blogger is realizing that sometimes I forget to put the best tools in my creative toolbox to use in my own creative writing practice--including some of the tools I'm familiar enough with and enthusiastic enough about to incorporate into my writing workshops, author visits, and encouraging blog posts! </p><p>I love the writing exercise I wrote about in my storystorm guest post, and I've seen many good ideas come from it, both for my own work, and for the participants of various writing workshops I've facilitated for all ages and stages over the years. Even so, sometimes this activity is not top of mind when my mind feels like creative mush, (which, coincidentally, is when I typically most need a creative kick-in-the-pants). </p><p>I've come to realize that writing this post was as much for me as it was for the other writers I intended to share it with. The act of drafting and polishing the blog post helped act as a reminder of how useful the exercise can be for me, and re-reading the post when it was <a href="https://taralazar.com/2024/01/06/storystorm-2024-day-6">published to Tara's blog</a> got me even more jazzed up about it. It was as if the <i>writing workshop presenter me</i> was directly speaking to the <i>creative writer me</i>. </p><p>Although it feels a bit strange to admit that I occasionally need to be reminded to heed my own writing advice, what totally blew me away was how much inspiration I got from just reading the <a href="https://taralazar.com/2024/01/06/storystorm-2024-day-6/#comment-515095">comments</a> on the post. Some commenters offered additional resources that aligned with my exercise, and several commenters offered new and fresh variations on my exercise, which generated SEVERAL new story ideas for my own Storystorm idea file, plus new ideas for my future writing workshops and author visits. How cool is that? </p><p>It was another example of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C1mwlymLHIf/">give a little, gain a lot</a> (something I recently mentioned experiencing by virtue of following/commenting on a social media post from esteemed literary agent <a href="https://www.instagram.com/carlywatters/">Carly Watters' Instagram account</a>.)</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZeoJq-sXq9IPVc0U2Qjj2CJsA6q1rRUDCEFs_rsmJNoWMwoYPvV50ug1bfZ5LNyeGOWmKHwgfHrJ3GWCgHjPajgjFav5lMoGSWVtUnZtv_hUqRqSaCZYeJo7mTBz-x5Vat92rrclcgqHwFqaV3Cyt11DHCJIbBQ8FWWJGQehhOaUTDZ2Rdyru6QfIQgPW/s636/Screen%20Shot%202024-01-10%20at%203.13.54%20PM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="636" data-original-width="630" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZeoJq-sXq9IPVc0U2Qjj2CJsA6q1rRUDCEFs_rsmJNoWMwoYPvV50ug1bfZ5LNyeGOWmKHwgfHrJ3GWCgHjPajgjFav5lMoGSWVtUnZtv_hUqRqSaCZYeJo7mTBz-x5Vat92rrclcgqHwFqaV3Cyt11DHCJIbBQ8FWWJGQehhOaUTDZ2Rdyru6QfIQgPW/w396-h400/Screen%20Shot%202024-01-10%20at%203.13.54%20PM.png" width="396" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Source: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/ ">https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/ </a> <br /><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C1kMLfRLoRa/">https://www.instagram.com/p/C1kMLfRLoRa/</a><br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0MOeTg4zjfmXNNWxN-LW5qWFvMSFUZQUT6Cx4IwkDSU1gvEeUHeHlTwb2S1w7_GMd_PzBqNk2g-RDgBLrF3MG1gH_JHrXmWlOqHKDkn6qMGGWNXWmJgU6uqph0A1g_HTbl9n8pckTYjZn9bjLntvm0RA4oHIYg_e51hA1XsNp-CtTDF4UsBxkjNwoIvQP/s1892/Screen%20Shot%202024-01-10%20at%202.55.35%20PM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1220" data-original-width="1892" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0MOeTg4zjfmXNNWxN-LW5qWFvMSFUZQUT6Cx4IwkDSU1gvEeUHeHlTwb2S1w7_GMd_PzBqNk2g-RDgBLrF3MG1gH_JHrXmWlOqHKDkn6qMGGWNXWmJgU6uqph0A1g_HTbl9n8pckTYjZn9bjLntvm0RA4oHIYg_e51hA1XsNp-CtTDF4UsBxkjNwoIvQP/w400-h258/Screen%20Shot%202024-01-10%20at%202.55.35%20PM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Source: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/">https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/</a> <br /><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C1mwlymLHIf/">https://www.instagram.com/p/C1mwlymLHIf/</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Bonus Tip: If you're not already following <a href="https://www.instagram.com/carlywatters/">Carly's IG account</a>, you should--it's overflowing with helpful, actionable industry info.</p><p>But I digress ...</p><p>Back to the topic at hand, here is a sampling of some of the variations, additional resources, and idea-stimulating comments shared on my Storystorm post: (Note: I've not provided attributions, as the blog platform's user names aren't necessarily real names, but you can directly access the post and comments <a href="https://taralazar.com/2024/01/06/storystorm-2024-day-6/#comment-515095">here</a> if you'd like to follow-up more comprehensively regarding specific sources on your own.): </p><div data-en-clipboard="true" data-pm-slice="1 1 []">Some of the objects people used for this exercise include: a rock, a collection of Wordle words, and vintage postcards.</div><div data-en-clipboard="true" data-pm-slice="1 1 []"><div><br /></div><div>Someone googled "vintage toys" and used the images that came up via the search as their "object."</div><div><br /></div><div>One commenter referred to her cat who happened to be on her lap as she wrote. </div><div><br /></div><div>Several people gave inspiring labels for the objects used in the exercise such as, "literary treasures" and "idea generators." Someone said, "My house is filled with objects for inspiration."</div><div><br /></div></div><div data-en-clipboard="true" data-pm-slice="1 1 []">Someone did a similar exercise at an assisted living facility, helping the elderly residents use "words from their memories and tactile sensations to write free-verse 'poetry'" then compiled the results into a booklet.</div><div><br /></div><div>Someone mentioned the exercise would be a great rainy day activity for parent/grandparent and child to do together. One person mentioned that she and her grandchild would do the activity together via WhatApp.</div><div><br /></div><div>Someone pointed out that <a href="https://thecharmedstudio.com/ray-bradbury-and-the-magic-cabinet/">Ray Bradbury regularly drew inspiration from the objects around him</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>Someone mentioned Rob Walker and the literary experiment chronicled in the book, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Significant-Objects-Jason-Grote/dp/1606995251/ref=sr_1_10?crid=29OUMHQTGG15Y&keywords=Rob+Walker&qid=1704829560&s=books&sprefix=rob+walker+%2Cstripbooks%2C186&sr=1-10">Significant Objects</a>. (Rob Walker also has a book that I found called, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Art-Noticing-Creativity-Inspiration-Discover/dp/0525521240/ref=sr_1_1?crid=29OUMHQTGG15Y&keywords=Rob+Walker&qid=1704829560&s=books&sprefix=rob+walker+%2Cstripbooks%2C186&sr=1-1">The Art of Noticing</a>.)</div><div> </div><div>And, I learned from one commenter that my little glass bird is a <a href="https://usingart.org/collections/blue-birds-of-happiness">Bluebird of Happiness</a>, lovingly made in Arkansas (and I received comments from MANY other people who have special associations with their own little glass Bluebird of Happiness. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcsYHbMEUWceNhlZ2okX06iXeWQA01s2GOt6vg_K9l92QuWVD719D6nZTj9kOz29AWfmj59FSC_jFZccj4Ch2t7nqYMn8U75hYeFZyGX3hFTmmOZJeShmHVW-V35aDG66HUR0pxPzepggPllEk4vmAiH3hTuWUl2WeuvWYfglNrT479xwtIvLsGJG_I8zI/s1280/Image%20of%20Lucy%20Book%20and%20Little%20Glass%20Bird.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcsYHbMEUWceNhlZ2okX06iXeWQA01s2GOt6vg_K9l92QuWVD719D6nZTj9kOz29AWfmj59FSC_jFZccj4Ch2t7nqYMn8U75hYeFZyGX3hFTmmOZJeShmHVW-V35aDG66HUR0pxPzepggPllEk4vmAiH3hTuWUl2WeuvWYfglNrT479xwtIvLsGJG_I8zI/w300-h400/Image%20of%20Lucy%20Book%20and%20Little%20Glass%20Bird.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image of Lucy's Blooms picture book and Dawn's little glass bird aka, Bluebird of Happiness</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>Thank you once again to <a href="https://taralazar.com/">author Tara Lazar</a>, for the opportunity to participate in Storystorm 2024 as a guest blogger. I'll continue to participate as a writer for the rest of the month. I'm well along my way to 30 ideas. <a href="https://taralazar.com/storystorm/">Storystorm</a> continues to blow my mind! </div><div><br /></div><div>Find <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/04/the-writing-life-summary-post.html">more posts on The Writing Life, here</a>. </div>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-52732662189217736622024-01-11T08:30:00.000-08:002024-01-11T08:30:00.130-08:00Birth Stories for Books: THE MESS MONSTER, by Jessica Marie<p>Welcome to the New Year dear readers, and welcome to another round of <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a> interviews and guest posts. Today's guest, <a href="https://www.jessicamarieauthor.com/home-1">Jessica Mari</a>e, shares her experience self-publishing her debut picture book, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Mess-Monster-Jessica-Marie/dp/B0CMS9V5QK/ref=sr_1_1?crid=O4U66M4EF152&keywords=the+mess+monster&qid=1704230703&sprefix=the+mess+monster%2Caps%2C190&sr=8-1">THE MESS MONSTER</a>, which came out in October of 2023 (illustrated by <a href="https://www.thechildrensillustrator.com/">Nicholas Child</a>). </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj032QqK6AjwWKaxBLDmgtjAYcVCkzVyJ0ccuGy8jayKyW-U-YWEUZnEB8BxQnblYErYfeFDaIUnGxk_cZ6bVTjRcDZPLhlwFiKfvE51kULalIgehud6gxMiTifzMqCqV7WV95TRU_u4jgsSmabuuMligGPcJi_papYo3qZcscKXb3_SwYn_4JBLPap9t09/s1500/Jessica%20Marie%20Mess%20Monster%20FRONT_COVER.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj032QqK6AjwWKaxBLDmgtjAYcVCkzVyJ0ccuGy8jayKyW-U-YWEUZnEB8BxQnblYErYfeFDaIUnGxk_cZ6bVTjRcDZPLhlwFiKfvE51kULalIgehud6gxMiTifzMqCqV7WV95TRU_u4jgsSmabuuMligGPcJi_papYo3qZcscKXb3_SwYn_4JBLPap9t09/s320/Jessica%20Marie%20Mess%20Monster%20FRONT_COVER.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">by <a href="https://www.jessicamarieauthor.com/about">Jessica Marie</a> and <a href="https://www.thechildrensillustrator.com/">Nicholas Child</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p><b>Dawn Prochovnic: So glad to have you on the blog, Jessica, and I’m really looking forward to learning more about your debut picture book, THE MESS MONSTER.</b></p><p><b>Reading your bio, it sounds like this story might stem from personal experience. Can you share some details about how the idea came to be and what motivated you to move the idea forward to fruition?</b></p><p><b>Jessica Marie</b>: It actually stemmed from an experience I had in middle school. We were assigned by our English teacher to write a story associated with a picture we had drawn. I drew a monster that was hidden beneath the bleachers. The story was more of a horror story, but the monster shined through in this book. I also am always motivated by my very active and messy daughter, who gets the messiness from her mom. However, the story of the Mess Monster was inspired by my daughter losing her soccer cleats. This story grew into a mother-daughter story with the messiness added to it.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFY4H5UnISP4uMuJKZBVDIAh3CKFReJ024FODpdH1fcbWp0G7cfJtK48EXFts0vpF9iXbfAWDoOIGXV1IXgzWOr7WISOI5hnsGYl-wqnRJ31Xgd0HJfiAg-M16ysiW1zysnu6b2CoyiY0so-cMFzkK-5en3z1Ywa9Ybu-8xeb94Y096h-u1JmC4FeR1Axz/s320/Jessica%20Marie%20and%20Daughter.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFY4H5UnISP4uMuJKZBVDIAh3CKFReJ024FODpdH1fcbWp0G7cfJtK48EXFts0vpF9iXbfAWDoOIGXV1IXgzWOr7WISOI5hnsGYl-wqnRJ31Xgd0HJfiAg-M16ysiW1zysnu6b2CoyiY0so-cMFzkK-5en3z1Ywa9Ybu-8xeb94Y096h-u1JmC4FeR1Axz/s1600/Jessica%20Marie%20and%20Daughter.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo provided by Jessica Marie</td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>DP: Very fun! </b></p><p><b>Can you share with us the process and timeframe between your initial idea and the story that was formulated fully enough to produce as an independently-published book?</b></p><p><b>JM</b>: The story was formulated enough within 6 months. I got sick of waiting for a publisher or agent, so I took matters into my own hands and self-published my manuscript.</p><p><b>DP: There is definitely a lot of waiting (and waiting...and waiting...) involved in the traditional publishing world! It sounds like you discovered a path that was a better fit for you. </b></p><p><b>When you compare one of your earliest drafts of this story to the version in the published book, what stands out for you in terms of what is most different? Likewise, is there anything in particular that stands out that was included in your earliest drafts and survived the revision process?</b></p><p><b> JM</b>: It was actually created as a monster that lived in the basement. It didn’t have the elements it does today. There was no messiness or family element to the story.</p><p><b>DP: Oh wow. It sounds like the manuscript changed a lot over time.</b></p><p><b>Reflecting on the journey from idea to published book, are there any individuals, experiences, or opportunities that you credit with opening the door for you to bring this story to publication?</b></p><p><b>JM</b>: My editor, Kathy MacMillan. She walked me through the publishing process and the art of book creation.</p><p><b>DP: <a href="https://kathymacmillan.com/">Kathy MacMillan</a> is wonderful! She and I got to know each other because of our mutual interest in American Sign Language. We've been championing each others' work for a couple of decades now! </b></p><p><b>How did you and she connect with each other, and can you share how the editorial process worked?</b></p><p><b>JM</b>: I found her through <a href="https://www.scbwi.org/">SCBWI</a>. I am so grateful for this connection. I watched some of her presentations and reached out to her. I now work with her on a weekly basis with all of my manuscripts. It’s been a real blessing.</p><p><b>DP: It sounds like you and Kathy have a fantastic working relationship.</b></p><p><b>I’m also interested in hearing how you went about the process of connecting with the illustrator for this project, <a href="https://www.thechildrensillustrator.com/">Nicholas Child</a>.</b></p><p><b>JM</b>: The illustrator was tricky. I was at the end of my rope and stumbled upon the website <a href="https://reedsy.com/editing/book-editor?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAhc-sBhCEARIsAOVwHuTaZwge7BJ9g8LHJIBA0W428Gn-cxprzmTD6a4xwFF34NBLh1QZl24aAk0TEALw_wcB">Reedsy</a>. There you can view illustrations and illustrators and choose one. I was connected to the illustrator who illustrated my books, <i>Finding my ROAR!</i> and <i>The Mess Monster</i>. However, I have since changed my illustrator and she will be working on my new books.</p><p><b>DP: In addition to Reedsy, were there any specific resources you utilized (for example, software, reference books, online classes or tools, etc.) that were most helpful to you along the way?</b></p><p><b>JM</b>: I did utilize online classes, online tools, and a person who does all of my marketing. I did appreciate the online classes, but my greatest endeavor is working with a marketing person. She is wonderful. She has helped me set up all of my social accounts and is very helpful.</p><p><b>DP: Have you engaged in any book promotion and/or marketing activities that have been especially effective in terms of growing book sales?</b></p><p><b>JM</b>: I have engaged in book promotions with book conferences and book fairs. Fairs like Oktoberfest and readings at elementary schools have helped with sales. I have also created a Mess Monster lovey to go along with the book. That seems to be helping switch marketing. However, the biggest promotions are in the pre-sales. I have not had the chance to do that with this book.</p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXWTVGRYrywrL7LZVEcxlk8SRiuS1w3_9v6lOvLYU3wnaq9ba1lFlNFwl7uG6iMTMEt0AhqrNjpxvBJ2cYgM93_50AR0tUOLYyzR5rGtM_rbjhUAHhzoEmkm8MEHyxmG-sGq-JbLIRybOK_ooA-EIn31xTQYY-2nm9iFboepXOsPtjDml_rpSi_46191MD/s320/Mess%20Monster%20Monster1.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXWTVGRYrywrL7LZVEcxlk8SRiuS1w3_9v6lOvLYU3wnaq9ba1lFlNFwl7uG6iMTMEt0AhqrNjpxvBJ2cYgM93_50AR0tUOLYyzR5rGtM_rbjhUAHhzoEmkm8MEHyxmG-sGq-JbLIRybOK_ooA-EIn31xTQYY-2nm9iFboepXOsPtjDml_rpSi_46191MD/s1600/Mess%20Monster%20Monster1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo provided by Jessica Marie</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgToJ3pD459WlEoV7ZP-ZclEB3JOb3sHJTCzuPA3SgDEv0jHjp4uudeFyDa7ksijNMWNmctkok5A8ALfzZx7F6VHAKg0c-m8kWLEL1teeSAXMhpzkdMPgVeVaiA5Cz-ZFaPLwwnzpxvrD1WZhQvThTFTFDPW36mxUD1Oc6iKtHlFa7wLw62bRMB5hDc8qNL/s320/Mess%20Monster%20and%20Dog%201.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgToJ3pD459WlEoV7ZP-ZclEB3JOb3sHJTCzuPA3SgDEv0jHjp4uudeFyDa7ksijNMWNmctkok5A8ALfzZx7F6VHAKg0c-m8kWLEL1teeSAXMhpzkdMPgVeVaiA5Cz-ZFaPLwwnzpxvrD1WZhQvThTFTFDPW36mxUD1Oc6iKtHlFa7wLw62bRMB5hDc8qNL/s1600/Mess%20Monster%20and%20Dog%201.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo provided by Jessica Marie</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><b>DP: Love the lovey! It's so cute! </b><p></p><p><b>If you could go back in time, what would you tell your pre-published self? Or, said another way, what do you know now, that you wished you would have known a bit earlier and/or are there any lessons you've learned along the way that could help others who would likewise like to write and independently-publish a children’s book?</b></p><p><b>JM</b>: It is going to take time, so be patient. I never realized until I was in it just how long it would take. It also comes with many, many rejections, and you cannot take that personally.</p><p><b>DP: I couldn't agree more! </b></p><p><b>Is there something you wish someone would ask you about your path to publication for THE MESS MONSTER that you haven’t had the opportunity to share yet?</b></p><p><b>JM</b>: It brings you immense joy to know that someone loves your book!</p><p><b>DP: That is so very, very true! </b></p><p><b>Do you have anything you’d like to tell us about what you’re currently working on?</b></p><p><b>JM</b>: This book is a series. Right now, I am finishing up <i>The Love Monster</i>, and <i>The Mess MOMster</i>.</p><p><b>DP: Those sound like super fun titles, Jessica! </b></p><p><b>Thanks so much for sharing your Birth Story for THE MESS MONSTER with us. I wish you much success with this project and the new books down the line!</b></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi0aO47vTkPrtETBu3xGdYJe63gulOJIly90UC8ob2IonJtTt2B_oBCvjPiVp6MY8wh-7EEwDwWEK3uw1TcXdHZwBPgIOz2nkxX3nnDc7NKueeWybHlTkzTxhYfk3nHQWEOV6uVcHeRQL-mC5QvDj_e2z9LMAjgDETTPaxL1WKm8sdn_8Vlv6-475boKNSk" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3750" data-original-width="2500" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi0aO47vTkPrtETBu3xGdYJe63gulOJIly90UC8ob2IonJtTt2B_oBCvjPiVp6MY8wh-7EEwDwWEK3uw1TcXdHZwBPgIOz2nkxX3nnDc7NKueeWybHlTkzTxhYfk3nHQWEOV6uVcHeRQL-mC5QvDj_e2z9LMAjgDETTPaxL1WKm8sdn_8Vlv6-475boKNSk" width="160" /></a></div>Jessica Marie's Bio: <p></p><p>I am a children’s book author, but longtime maker of messes. </p><p>I graduated from the University of Kansas with my master’s degree in Early Childhood Special Education. I taught Kindergarten for several years in Texas. </p><p>I have 3 dogs and a spectacular 8-year-old daughter. I love to do yoga and spend time outdoors. I live in Kansas City, Kansas. My favorite color is pink and my favorite food is candy.</p><p><br /></p><p>**********</p><p><br /></p><p><a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a> is an occasional feature of Dawn Babb Prochovnic's blog. Dawn is the author of multiple picture books including, <i>Lucy's Blooms</i>, <i>Where Does a Cowgirl Go Potty?</i>, <i>Where Does a Pirate Go Potty?</i>, and 16 books in the <i>Story Time With Signs & Rhymes</i> series. Dawn is a contributing author to the award-winning book, <i>Oregon Reads Aloud</i>, the 2023 Walt Morey Award winner, and a frequent presenter at schools, libraries, and educational conferences. Contact Dawn using the form at the left, or learn more at <a href="http://www.dawnprochovnic.com">www.dawnprochovnic.com</a>. </p><p><br /><br /></p><p><br /></p>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-84563265971901025972023-12-30T13:31:00.000-08:002023-12-30T13:41:10.239-08:002023 Year-End Post and Holiday Greeting<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As I’ve <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/12/year-end-greetings-and-holiday-letters.html">shared in this space before</a>, one of the ways I reflect on the past and make way for the future is through the tradition of preparing and mailing holiday greeting cards. Although fewer and fewer folks send out year-end greetings, I continue to look forward to this annual tradition—both the receiving and displaying of cards, letters, and photos from friends and family and the preparation of my own annual update. </span></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1-DK4qT7vQSQfYmosxGQ5xgjb7pBmBxFazagR6tcVHGeYsskdtp4BwTH_Zxx_wPAZf-Kj4Ylc3F0xj8qewcZrYoCNrrzQZ-SiGTt9SPRxmMwkc-UEM1w2DPINdrvGpUY_bWGOO1zLpWKHuqS0NHxiEC2BTTkXoZdvv5X0wQjiNlVmHwVewUKZg1yS60Fq/s1800/NEW%206%20X%204%20Final%20to%20Print.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1800" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1-DK4qT7vQSQfYmosxGQ5xgjb7pBmBxFazagR6tcVHGeYsskdtp4BwTH_Zxx_wPAZf-Kj4Ylc3F0xj8qewcZrYoCNrrzQZ-SiGTt9SPRxmMwkc-UEM1w2DPINdrvGpUY_bWGOO1zLpWKHuqS0NHxiEC2BTTkXoZdvv5X0wQjiNlVmHwVewUKZg1yS60Fq/w400-h266/NEW%206%20X%204%20Final%20to%20Print.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you are one of my regular readers, you know by now that each year I begin the process by paging through <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2019/01/2018-year-end-post-albeit-belated.html">my (old-style) calendar</a>, making note of the highlights and ordinary happenings in our household. I next look for themes. I approach the task as an exercise in creative expression, aiming to share our family’s news in a way that is reflective of the world events and/or a major aspect of our personal lives. And, while I am acutely aware of deep levels of pain and suffering in our world, I often choose to center my annual reflection closer to home and on more joyful aspects of our lived experience. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span><br /></span><span>There were some significant milestones for our family this year, including my oldest child moving out of the family home and my youngest child turning 21 and studying abroad in Siena, Italy—wine country. Closer to home, over the course of the year our family listened to live music and enjoyed a myriad of picnics and happy hours over shared bottles of wine. We visited several local wineries, and hosted our beloved 2017 exchange student, (aka our Italian son) and his family for a visit—which, not surprisingly, involved some fine wine. Add to that the glasses that have been emptied with like-minded folks over the past year whilst lamenting about the state of our world and strategizing for the future, and a holiday greeting that incorporated different wine labels seemed the perfect pour for this year: </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQrjSIJPWJXAMlJgKKQAkRZOXE6eeZV3OS81DNnBc8FGyBl5689DkDweqZOCT9ScVPxLWxRqVZ7S-BUnasHbuYzrC6CJd17Hd2aXHdHGmBTIxLYhpj3kUz2WE13GpDc-FRKSZPC0CPO3oBWny9CuJNpf1br-F52Cfmctj-aRDpxSSOIXcXoMY8xTawhste/s791/FINAL%20Proof%20and%20group%20Moved.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="791" data-original-width="612" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQrjSIJPWJXAMlJgKKQAkRZOXE6eeZV3OS81DNnBc8FGyBl5689DkDweqZOCT9ScVPxLWxRqVZ7S-BUnasHbuYzrC6CJd17Hd2aXHdHGmBTIxLYhpj3kUz2WE13GpDc-FRKSZPC0CPO3oBWny9CuJNpf1br-F52Cfmctj-aRDpxSSOIXcXoMY8xTawhste/w496-h640/FINAL%20Proof%20and%20group%20Moved.png" width="496" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This year’s greeting entailed more customized graphics than I have used in the past, which stretched me creatively and gave me an excuse to experiment more fully with online tools such as <a href="https://www.canva.com/">Canva</a>. It also required me to prioritize what I wanted to communicate and be concise in my wording—also a challenge! This practice will serve me well in other aspects of <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/04/the-writing-life-summary-post.html">my creative writing journey</a>. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span><br /></span><span>As I designed, refined, and reflected on this year’s update, I was reminded that fine wines tend to get better with age, and similarly, the strongest stories ripen over time. I was also reminded that individuals have different tastes and preferences for wine, just as individual agents, editors, and readers have different tastes and preferences for stories. Some types of wine pair more naturally with certain occasions and/or particular meals, and some stories pair more naturally with certain moments in time and/or particular readers. The quest is for strong pairings. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span><br /></span><span>As a New Year gets underway, I anticipate there will be times to crack open new and fresh varietals to taste and explore, and there will be times to reach into the cellar for a well-aged vintage, open it, and let it breathe. <br /></span><span><span>Here’s to a generous pour of Peace, Love, Joy, and Creativity in the New Year. </span>Cheers to you and yours!</span></span></div>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-71143815281768776942023-11-28T15:56:00.000-08:002023-11-28T16:10:01.084-08:00The Gratitude Part of the Writing LifeOne of my longtime critique partners, <a href="https://www.saratbehrman.com/">Sara T. Behrman</a>, is currently preparing for the April 2024 launch of her debut picture book, <a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Sea-Hides-a-Seahorse/Sara-T-Behrman/9781685556440">THE SEA HIDES A SEAHORSE</a>, a beautiful, poetic, and information-rich story brilliantly illustrated by <a href="https://www.mm-illustration.com/">Melanie Mikecz</a>, and published by <a href="https://thecollectivebook.studio/the-sea-hides-a-seahorse">The Collective Book Studio</a>. (Pssst...you can <a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-sea-hides-a-seahorse-sara-t-behrman/20651253?ean=9781685556440">pre-order Sara's book now</a>, and watch this space for an author interview as the pub date draws near!) <div><br /><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi7RKIiYSEFryjc7F1Ry81vPVoZUeBdM-tcnhmlUBEeOreBrt0C_cj0Aj1OZWfMT-YIkFQolqawFa32AbtY4RuS61rk_oEydz5IX95lMjGlbzgaQFs5ajDMmNSyv1D3RK25DWWojESwQ37s8VNcChBg9bQo7-5URkC1Jrzz7kB0LxwHx_69iYnwsbF4uJV/s4032/DawnatColElem.jpeg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi7RKIiYSEFryjc7F1Ry81vPVoZUeBdM-tcnhmlUBEeOreBrt0C_cj0Aj1OZWfMT-YIkFQolqawFa32AbtY4RuS61rk_oEydz5IX95lMjGlbzgaQFs5ajDMmNSyv1D3RK25DWWojESwQ37s8VNcChBg9bQo7-5URkC1Jrzz7kB0LxwHx_69iYnwsbF4uJV/w240-h320/DawnatColElem.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawn Arriving at School Author Visit</td></tr></tbody></table>Over the past several weeks and months, Sara has asked me a few questions related to my past book launch experiences, and I've done my best to respond to each question with meaningful information. Sara has been very appreciative of my willingness to share my time and insights, and I've been sincere when I've said it's my pleasure to support the launch of her new book, just as she and countless others have enthusiastically supported my own. <p></p><p>It seems like a good time to take pause and share how grateful I am for the folks who have given my work a boost over the years. </p><p>Thank you, each and every one of you! </p><p>Some recent examples include:</p><p><br /></p><p>*Being invited by author friends, such as <a href="https://www.stephanieshawauthor.com/">Stephanie Shaw</a>, to participate as a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cq8O-qwOZeJ/?img_index=1">guest author at local schools</a> alongside other author friends, such as <a href="https://www.markfearing.com/">Mark Fearing</a>.</p><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Z2JPGXI5ua4go9ZlD_2CvmOKpdmJ9pphoforIC6masVEWb9NFheL6-Vs9XHO_zeFG3iDIWzs4q-QXd-xTQ8aW4WcohZ9yr6EoT6ulCZ-oxcumwh_bLq5vg2ZwABqM4ohlj88OjCljp_i6wcm6cK0F7KmoCTUd1JaJBWxoRc9fYMQKnNcWX21hRFPluK_/s4032/Mark%20and%20Stephanie%20Col%20Elem.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Z2JPGXI5ua4go9ZlD_2CvmOKpdmJ9pphoforIC6masVEWb9NFheL6-Vs9XHO_zeFG3iDIWzs4q-QXd-xTQ8aW4WcohZ9yr6EoT6ulCZ-oxcumwh_bLq5vg2ZwABqM4ohlj88OjCljp_i6wcm6cK0F7KmoCTUd1JaJBWxoRc9fYMQKnNcWX21hRFPluK_/w300-h400/Mark%20and%20Stephanie%20Col%20Elem.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Authors Mark Fearing and Stephanie Shaw at School Author Visit</td></tr></tbody></table><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_7DhrlEOAfyuukjx-zlSeGjIkfJ6L3obKwJltHJ2DqpX1SmKDt-9F330JgVY5zyPNflvft3LYCia4lKRDLGk4nm8MdvOjL3uJU2aeojyTyJmqbhmlnSl5CYfShzmzfdc9d9ThVcsBRUOWjlxpdJop-sTe7IzSy5ydDDTur-NFfu3b0HvYWAXwzJfasJ0L/s4032/Columbus%20Elementary%20Bulletin%20Board%20image_67200257.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_7DhrlEOAfyuukjx-zlSeGjIkfJ6L3obKwJltHJ2DqpX1SmKDt-9F330JgVY5zyPNflvft3LYCia4lKRDLGk4nm8MdvOjL3uJU2aeojyTyJmqbhmlnSl5CYfShzmzfdc9d9ThVcsBRUOWjlxpdJop-sTe7IzSy5ydDDTur-NFfu3b0HvYWAXwzJfasJ0L/w300-h400/Columbus%20Elementary%20Bulletin%20Board%20image_67200257.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poster in School Hallway Publicizing Upcoming Author Day </td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>*Being welcomed into my hometown indie bookstores such as <a href="http://www.greenbeanbookspdx.com/">Green Bean Books</a>, <a href="https://www.annieblooms.com/">Annie Blooms Books</a>, and <a href="https://www.powells.com/">Powell's Books</a> for <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CTzqB7ypfdE/">book launch events</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/COBXgsEBU1_/">story times/book readings</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B4xYVpjh7Ce/">panel discussions</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B7RJlyzhj4B/">writing workshops</a> .</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIcXsIyqCsN_mh82kpo3TU2LW6Nmsu-e9HHtHjY1VpRjoWzGIsPAQcvxR3tlQfZkbqQ18wOwxg-8ILTSTkgWjAj-Qyah2M7hmd0fz6YNLoBEPEF8kai5VFgDBpZNwvPq0Gkno2r3nYXX1hQw7uIggzXMUhbeM5ll4tHJAYCnD7FetW_Wo6qLkG0nw-YuwS/s640/GreenBean2AIMG_6202.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIcXsIyqCsN_mh82kpo3TU2LW6Nmsu-e9HHtHjY1VpRjoWzGIsPAQcvxR3tlQfZkbqQ18wOwxg-8ILTSTkgWjAj-Qyah2M7hmd0fz6YNLoBEPEF8kai5VFgDBpZNwvPq0Gkno2r3nYXX1hQw7uIggzXMUhbeM5ll4tHJAYCnD7FetW_Wo6qLkG0nw-YuwS/w400-h300/GreenBean2AIMG_6202.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawn Dressed at a Pirate Leading a Pirate-y Story Time at Green Bean Books</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj0ooI_4NE_ypKfJ7HwngUIAb58g4WffIa1eSxPTD6XHT8OYIbflHgNZ8TfUi8tx7RRO28-8wIP1oK0SPWhlCcbubZBw51eXv0OnlIqT0RS_Xgz7OCZ1mPc1yQk4-w18MqpUVFEN3OQOGGQnx42hT60STMz2fa6sKrrF9_6SJ6u_rBU7b0bwJjmXAOmhoyK" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj0ooI_4NE_ypKfJ7HwngUIAb58g4WffIa1eSxPTD6XHT8OYIbflHgNZ8TfUi8tx7RRO28-8wIP1oK0SPWhlCcbubZBw51eXv0OnlIqT0RS_Xgz7OCZ1mPc1yQk4-w18MqpUVFEN3OQOGGQnx42hT60STMz2fa6sKrrF9_6SJ6u_rBU7b0bwJjmXAOmhoyK=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawn in Front of Sign at Annie Blooms Books Announcing Panel Discussion</td></tr></tbody></table></div><br /><p></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhXa28HOVtxYydG6Zf1swLAo7I7Wd7XXAjEs-pwhw8Ztl17VgjR7QedojQ4F66tYcOjUw3-NVGWrOYbw99x4U01REqYxvmchDjIepDfNcjOUDPMFsKB8wuL7UwbTOVhcfYonlSv-DzPIzxTtn6bhYzlwad69AjJ3JUnkXhxRyi2ZnfXFPQUX5tn2QuQNcGj" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhXa28HOVtxYydG6Zf1swLAo7I7Wd7XXAjEs-pwhw8Ztl17VgjR7QedojQ4F66tYcOjUw3-NVGWrOYbw99x4U01REqYxvmchDjIepDfNcjOUDPMFsKB8wuL7UwbTOVhcfYonlSv-DzPIzxTtn6bhYzlwad69AjJ3JUnkXhxRyi2ZnfXFPQUX5tn2QuQNcGj=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawn Teaching a Young Writers' Workshop at Powells' Books</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>*Being welcomed into <a href="https://www.wccls.org/libraries/westslope">my neighborhood library</a> for book launch events (and to keep me supplied in books!). </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCk3MxfgMQ0nm5wRipVMG-hcJ3BwWOIWRCXzW1jO3JITHM-oIf4-1Rki44_vW1iCdEiewZ2BoTSRU-tqMVranjxweJNM71ilNye_dvEPWoXSNivG0Ow7czu9FFwW2VA6HPNW9L5hpx9xu_seeRygFaoT7T-taeFGGlnxt46ncJixop-hSx48ePmrFAeuuX/s4032/West%20Slope%20Library%20display.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCk3MxfgMQ0nm5wRipVMG-hcJ3BwWOIWRCXzW1jO3JITHM-oIf4-1Rki44_vW1iCdEiewZ2BoTSRU-tqMVranjxweJNM71ilNye_dvEPWoXSNivG0Ow7czu9FFwW2VA6HPNW9L5hpx9xu_seeRygFaoT7T-taeFGGlnxt46ncJixop-hSx48ePmrFAeuuX/w400-h300/West%20Slope%20Library%20display.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Display Table with Dawn's Pirate and Cowgirl Books at the West Slope Library</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>*Having my work spotlighted as a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B5REs-hBxru/">Staff Pick</a> by local booksellers at indie bookstores such as <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/ClZC89UJ-eV/">Powell's Books</a> .</p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjsG6ad6ocKchMb-9UuOA-j7r7EnQPTyMFR0Rjpm6hs2FDRWMVuswJF6-f49Iur0VSrcWKbVOKUglVQMr9xhnsjWcDi1VDJnqsCEp2RU21HLMGVWa5HXeACD1bLa9XNnmRNhM2hYxXelADbI9OH21PyWmcC8VOqu1lRQsZd3Zgdp9Qlg_Ozn2TAXK8fRuhy" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjsG6ad6ocKchMb-9UuOA-j7r7EnQPTyMFR0Rjpm6hs2FDRWMVuswJF6-f49Iur0VSrcWKbVOKUglVQMr9xhnsjWcDi1VDJnqsCEp2RU21HLMGVWa5HXeACD1bLa9XNnmRNhM2hYxXelADbI9OH21PyWmcC8VOqu1lRQsZd3Zgdp9Qlg_Ozn2TAXK8fRuhy=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawn's Book, Lucy's Blooms, Featured as a Staff Pick at Powell's Books<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Ttpm-veu20da_bDOeXCzmWPD2-Lonv0Q-aPstOt5igonK1cFUo8ox2pWQhtsVq3LCUstGGCHtZwBrSyjwSLo5EA9WT6IaWstvFRzOwEXricfkBqkH4__t6leTbCtQeJ3yS0tv9WV6jHIideNMsn7am7a6rXtDYNJ6dh0kd74yu2DaSvhSjl6CVwR3EA2/s2016/CowgirlAtPowellsCityOfBooksCloseUpIMG_7545.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Ttpm-veu20da_bDOeXCzmWPD2-Lonv0Q-aPstOt5igonK1cFUo8ox2pWQhtsVq3LCUstGGCHtZwBrSyjwSLo5EA9WT6IaWstvFRzOwEXricfkBqkH4__t6leTbCtQeJ3yS0tv9WV6jHIideNMsn7am7a6rXtDYNJ6dh0kd74yu2DaSvhSjl6CVwR3EA2/w300-h400/CowgirlAtPowellsCityOfBooksCloseUpIMG_7545.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawn's Cowgirl Book Featured as a Staff Pick at Powell's Books</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>*Being welcomed into indie bookstores when I travel, such as at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cy6wJ84P3rY/?img_index=1">Page1 Book</a>s in Santa Fe.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaliYoUZNriQ8aVVmGc79Dw8t7utSY0493X0daOO02TjD_B63SZQOZAN1XnzYtRwSp9gJjVw9S9-wULJuj8e4ym3auuyQACIUo5Bn-1X1axRXkfT_n8xK4AJ3dKA0_5uGy1Spt0VHv-7T1t9LO4FTVRlVVjW7az37AnhNiy-bHZh5ks0ckKUVjiOdSyUw5/s1080/Page1%20Books%20IG%20Post%20IMG_8580.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaliYoUZNriQ8aVVmGc79Dw8t7utSY0493X0daOO02TjD_B63SZQOZAN1XnzYtRwSp9gJjVw9S9-wULJuj8e4ym3auuyQACIUo5Bn-1X1axRXkfT_n8xK4AJ3dKA0_5uGy1Spt0VHv-7T1t9LO4FTVRlVVjW7az37AnhNiy-bHZh5ks0ckKUVjiOdSyUw5/w400-h300/Page1%20Books%20IG%20Post%20IMG_8580.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawn Holding her Pirate Book at Page1 Books in Santa Fe</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>*Having the opportunity to participate in events such as <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2023/02/the-wrad-part-of-writing-life-2023.html">World Read Aloud Day</a>, because of <a href="https://katemessner.com/getting-ready-for-world-read-aloud-day-2024-a-call-for-author-illustrator-volunteers/">author Kate Messner's</a> ongoing willingness to help teachers and librarians find authors (<a href="https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F45ACA82CA0F4C61-45777490-world#/">like me!</a>) who are available to participate. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0jj87rbQ9GF-ipV2jbOSbqSf6VcjSDhF4_py-iRLCu51-CvJ8Oc5fZQTtpVGBPQxV8712xISgd-ML-CjDN3h1u48f-i-uSPzewMP7yryaam7ZLRFd5YmYIkBCvoFUfBELujT084pYKvklBiro-1T2LyJ95ZJgmjK4mjPfIk4b9xoIW41W9iI9uHt_w8lb/s2130/Screen%20Shot%20of%20Zoom%20Meeting%20zm20230201-1503-2.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1446" data-original-width="2130" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0jj87rbQ9GF-ipV2jbOSbqSf6VcjSDhF4_py-iRLCu51-CvJ8Oc5fZQTtpVGBPQxV8712xISgd-ML-CjDN3h1u48f-i-uSPzewMP7yryaam7ZLRFd5YmYIkBCvoFUfBELujT084pYKvklBiro-1T2LyJ95ZJgmjK4mjPfIk4b9xoIW41W9iI9uHt_w8lb/w400-h271/Screen%20Shot%20of%20Zoom%20Meeting%20zm20230201-1503-2.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawn Holding Her Books Pirate, Cowgirl, and Lucy's Blooms in Zoom Frame</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>*Being interviewed by fellow authors such as <a href="https://www.robinhallwrites.com/">Robin Hall</a> for <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cr0_p7aIoVt/">Instagram Live Events</a>, <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2019/11/the-blog-tour-part-of-writing-life.html">featured as a guest on many other authors' blogs</a>, and featured in / interviewed for various <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Yi1Bb2NhOPLAkRrMPWxeFIuxXk2Gi9Jk5C9UR5NFt5w/edit?usp=sharing">media publications</a>.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC5nTwSXv0neKAe6gqA5RI9ad95CzFrCQwvsflBpG44yb8Bcio1d1N8eajDwmCr5lxpRdNRnZC22wkl0yUfp6rmgUdJXPwZKOkarhiwf8rnpusVnQC0-ZZmLHyQPeJnbDLsrnAbcyLiL9D1skgC8BrSGjLsKKeJre8SvdC-PALc3rTVTRgXhKHBlJToLa2/s1386/IG%20Live%20with%20Robin%20Hall%20Screen%20Shot%202023-11-28%20at%2011.29.39%20AM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1386" data-original-width="816" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC5nTwSXv0neKAe6gqA5RI9ad95CzFrCQwvsflBpG44yb8Bcio1d1N8eajDwmCr5lxpRdNRnZC22wkl0yUfp6rmgUdJXPwZKOkarhiwf8rnpusVnQC0-ZZmLHyQPeJnbDLsrnAbcyLiL9D1skgC8BrSGjLsKKeJre8SvdC-PALc3rTVTRgXhKHBlJToLa2/w235-h400/IG%20Live%20with%20Robin%20Hall%20Screen%20Shot%202023-11-28%20at%2011.29.39%20AM.png" width="235" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawn Being Interviewed by Author Robin Hall on Instagram Live</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>*Collaborating with talented musicians such as <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/COvc9amBI4c/">Maiah Wynne</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUGiFYAvXbz/">Annie Lynn</a>, and <a href="https://marshallmitchell.com/">Marshall Mitchell</a> to create companion songs for my stories. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCC0DhWLd5trI5ximB7jbPz1PS20tm7w__5e0iv6D7Kv6j-quRlqg72BikqCwdoUcuZHM52n57rt2JWbnDhhlf-ASsO1fw3E2qKxYVS3W11AOv4YhNAwIRg5Xh5Zbsyx-j8QHsxne0PnloGBe_pYfDFI76wGLmTot1rEHYcV9d3IiE-KzauKXpHYaUSgmb/s1080/Maiah%20Holding%20Lucy%20May%2011%202021%20IMG_3583.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCC0DhWLd5trI5ximB7jbPz1PS20tm7w__5e0iv6D7Kv6j-quRlqg72BikqCwdoUcuZHM52n57rt2JWbnDhhlf-ASsO1fw3E2qKxYVS3W11AOv4YhNAwIRg5Xh5Zbsyx-j8QHsxne0PnloGBe_pYfDFI76wGLmTot1rEHYcV9d3IiE-KzauKXpHYaUSgmb/s320/Maiah%20Holding%20Lucy%20May%2011%202021%20IMG_3583.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Musician Maiah Wynne, Holding A Copy of Dawn's Book, Lucy's Blooms</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO17E3DBMPLZfuUi5uB2mTwWVQNMpYmiY6Dqd62SBXwCDdHOtdPL6q1DwBGi646jnx1Jt7ckdn68pglT9JZJO9OzIrHdyxi40QFiCyGpqOx0JW-1o8YKDugfejIRHANDYSwfYkDLnf1G2yafOiFnMDA-TdjCxaphn_CqDIhJK6tYV5M4BHfTUtrFF8mflF/s1024/Pirate%20Studio%20Images.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO17E3DBMPLZfuUi5uB2mTwWVQNMpYmiY6Dqd62SBXwCDdHOtdPL6q1DwBGi646jnx1Jt7ckdn68pglT9JZJO9OzIrHdyxi40QFiCyGpqOx0JW-1o8YKDugfejIRHANDYSwfYkDLnf1G2yafOiFnMDA-TdjCxaphn_CqDIhJK6tYV5M4BHfTUtrFF8mflF/s320/Pirate%20Studio%20Images.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pirate Alex, One of the Featured Vocalists in the Companion Song to Dawn's Pirate Book</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>*Having my work championed and celebrated by dear friends and colleagues, such as author <a href="https://www.stephanieshawauthor.com/">Stephanie Shaw</a> and author and founder of <a href="https://mybabyfingers.com/">Baby Fingers</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CLxxwjiB9BN/?img_index=1">Lora Heller</a>.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg512FnXLRRzGCLm83k0v14cg8xeqacexki23nCUILsAK9c3JGG_bu6SJrtggdS9OXz2RsBeVd3Eze4-3wuTSROUOFYr3n4Z8iwrzk5dZDu4d27ernIuyE3yfdftfxryAmeppBcMGdnIRAXYALB5mJZCd9AEZv7rtVbsyR0sIcdqT9qW2uNabYWwcXlzUCy/s640/PottyBooksOnThePottyIMG_3402.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg512FnXLRRzGCLm83k0v14cg8xeqacexki23nCUILsAK9c3JGG_bu6SJrtggdS9OXz2RsBeVd3Eze4-3wuTSROUOFYr3n4Z8iwrzk5dZDu4d27ernIuyE3yfdftfxryAmeppBcMGdnIRAXYALB5mJZCd9AEZv7rtVbsyR0sIcdqT9qW2uNabYWwcXlzUCy/w300-h400/PottyBooksOnThePottyIMG_3402.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Author Stephanie Shaw Reading Dawn's Pirate and Cowgirl Books</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0AK7plBlltsqSDONdSqzfACxCgJvkTgS9l7dy_7nr2jeWSd0EtYoJ3IckOG0fGt5C1i0R_y5i1okPp9aqMmwt-iDv3oTwMBykir7WsRNuvAdJuExicKEy7XT508623RWGphalweDD0XiMczMQU9wNAjsDOe__IauuYekJXV638gk0MWaWwXjYflod42RI/s1286/Lora%20Reading%20Lucy%20Screen%20Shot%202023-11-28%20at%209.39.19%20AM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="726" data-original-width="1286" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0AK7plBlltsqSDONdSqzfACxCgJvkTgS9l7dy_7nr2jeWSd0EtYoJ3IckOG0fGt5C1i0R_y5i1okPp9aqMmwt-iDv3oTwMBykir7WsRNuvAdJuExicKEy7XT508623RWGphalweDD0XiMczMQU9wNAjsDOe__IauuYekJXV638gk0MWaWwXjYflod42RI/w400-h226/Lora%20Reading%20Lucy%20Screen%20Shot%202023-11-28%20at%209.39.19%20AM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Author Lora Heller Reading Dawn's Book, Lucy's Blooms</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>*Being invited as a guest author at special community events, such as the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CyldJFTO0iR/">Treasure Hunt Adventure</a> organized by <a href="https://herringbonebooks.indielite.org/">Herringbone Books</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Clwihk5PAU9/">Holiday Cheer</a> hosted by the <a href="https://www.ohs.org/">Oregon Historical Society</a>.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrjtqEDYAwAIE-j3_gpNH4iSnT-YX2T-XfjBIW4JEq_Mj0dOs4aIldAUEpVYT3Az0vUsbHm-ZHdk8kgyedu-X05673yAfsQtudYnawtFPpAYWJxGNJW1JF9RLWvp9aXrpN1pGkZ-G3K4QQAY0Ghg8b_aeDwzZQjv8Y6n5IIKmLqqV4hiHL0zwzKsoWD5tm/s4032/Scavenger%20Hunt%20Herringbone%20Books.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrjtqEDYAwAIE-j3_gpNH4iSnT-YX2T-XfjBIW4JEq_Mj0dOs4aIldAUEpVYT3Az0vUsbHm-ZHdk8kgyedu-X05673yAfsQtudYnawtFPpAYWJxGNJW1JF9RLWvp9aXrpN1pGkZ-G3K4QQAY0Ghg8b_aeDwzZQjv8Y6n5IIKmLqqV4hiHL0zwzKsoWD5tm/w300-h400/Scavenger%20Hunt%20Herringbone%20Books.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawn's Books Displayed for Scavenger Hunt Event Hosted by Herringbone Books</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIuOrzhNpDHwmgENv7Cj3oXCNlMwT713ky4v1XDpgwj3ZDZ-P3NI6qRdgmTkXqLjlIopUlrWsQasYbNfkYKHyb7wA6-r3dTXRhzcdH8QPZHsLSPsi8XKSyt-Jb0jVyEMbfmHECjaLECmJX_a4earqhtzxUZkDrsEbU51rquvb2bGCjhkVfSQjvJA7Bs1hk/s4032/OHS%20Holiday%20Cheer%202022%20Dawn%20Babb%20Prochovnic%20IMG_3386.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIuOrzhNpDHwmgENv7Cj3oXCNlMwT713ky4v1XDpgwj3ZDZ-P3NI6qRdgmTkXqLjlIopUlrWsQasYbNfkYKHyb7wA6-r3dTXRhzcdH8QPZHsLSPsi8XKSyt-Jb0jVyEMbfmHECjaLECmJX_a4earqhtzxUZkDrsEbU51rquvb2bGCjhkVfSQjvJA7Bs1hk/w300-h400/OHS%20Holiday%20Cheer%202022%20Dawn%20Babb%20Prochovnic%20IMG_3386.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawn Participating in Holiday Cheer, Hosted by The Oregon Historical Society</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>*Being included in book signing events with organizations such as <a href="https://willamettewriters.org/">Willamette Writers</a> at special events such as <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CzE7G1kS5N_/">The Portland Book Festival</a>.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjGOmstWAnQFKafGVtfxtFkKhTNglx4KzzS0TQutC2lEVs9XPSi6KZP3ZJ9LReSHUnWoSBouyugqJ9aDOMtWmR1VW2Pl4Yn79lohmP0J8ipwMU4qPyBzaKhwoByTstL1f-9xtRYy1WyogYC0XdFVEaauWh9T-BlG6eH-z3Wkota_o0vsrN8ByZIxpnaHw6/s1080/Portland%20Book%20Festival%20Graphic%202023.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjGOmstWAnQFKafGVtfxtFkKhTNglx4KzzS0TQutC2lEVs9XPSi6KZP3ZJ9LReSHUnWoSBouyugqJ9aDOMtWmR1VW2Pl4Yn79lohmP0J8ipwMU4qPyBzaKhwoByTstL1f-9xtRYy1WyogYC0XdFVEaauWh9T-BlG6eH-z3Wkota_o0vsrN8ByZIxpnaHw6/w400-h400/Portland%20Book%20Festival%20Graphic%202023.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawn's Promo Image for a Book Signing at the Willamette Writers Booth at the Portland Book Festival</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>*Being nominated by my peers and honored by <a href="https://literary-arts.org/">Literary Arts</a> with the <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2023/04/the-literary-legacy-part-of-writing-life.html">Walt Morey Young Readers Literary Legacy Award</a>.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO79pTCeUSdVgMmekK_X0pn9c-E8H9IUDmw_KEXst3ROiWkWAkrl62WLylSf-JtvIGvVW2EUPYDktwIF3J0UnL16onsun-9A_hIDJEsu9pMFI2KKI5dxAqfaa9vYlMMdYS-bvIg73Dchzud3T4_g_rf8H7kuslOcfdjYBm8CgtbufKsvkeYJCDzY9YzK8k/s1792/Dawn%20at%20Literary%20Arts%20Walt%20Morey%20Award%20IMG_4353.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1792" data-original-width="828" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO79pTCeUSdVgMmekK_X0pn9c-E8H9IUDmw_KEXst3ROiWkWAkrl62WLylSf-JtvIGvVW2EUPYDktwIF3J0UnL16onsun-9A_hIDJEsu9pMFI2KKI5dxAqfaa9vYlMMdYS-bvIg73Dchzud3T4_g_rf8H7kuslOcfdjYBm8CgtbufKsvkeYJCDzY9YzK8k/w185-h400/Dawn%20at%20Literary%20Arts%20Walt%20Morey%20Award%20IMG_4353.PNG" width="185" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawn Holding Flowers and Smiling, Just Prior to Receiving the Walt Morey Award <br />(Photo Credit: <a href="https://andiepetkus.zenfolio.com/p1059073274">Andie Petkus Photography</a> for <a href="https://literary-arts.org/">Literary Arts</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>The list goes on and on. </p><p>And then there all of "the little things" that so many different folks have done to support my work:</p><p>Showing up at book events and/or posting event details on social channels; Purchasing my books from indie bookstores; Requesting my books at local libraries; Gifting my books to young readers, teachers, literacy organizations; Writing kind notes and reviews; Offering helpful critiques; Laughing in all the right places; Making introductions to industry insiders such as agents, editors, and book sellers; Sharing pro tips. </p><p>I'm sure I've forgotten something or someone important, but suffice it say, "the village" has really come through for me and my books.</p><p>All this said, what I'm most grateful for in my writing life is my readers. I was at a professional gathering a couple of weeks ago, and someone who owns one of my books told me that their child asks to have my book read to them again and again, night after night. That was music to my ears. Speaking of music, I've received videos from music teachers who have led their classes to make music to go along with my books. I've also received videos of children reading one of my books aloud, or repeating a phrase from one of my stories. And sometimes I receive photos of child holding one of my books, close. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3MJIRpL_9B0PQ59J-4PIhHCcZeS1aJwtFo2NupIQJJ-LElpiHLsQRaPuUdEuExs_k0uoxNLbne7Y2D3f2GP_ABBzkX5SB1kME67QR-CUyZC3pDvO5t68pyrg0cXY8y579C3WjkGWbGK3VxNYi_3XFc2agy4oHQXd1ef4tZEarAT85kusL2Rk4aIn5RI1N/s1008/CollaborationGiveawayWinnerPhoto1IMG_8333.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1008" data-original-width="756" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3MJIRpL_9B0PQ59J-4PIhHCcZeS1aJwtFo2NupIQJJ-LElpiHLsQRaPuUdEuExs_k0uoxNLbne7Y2D3f2GP_ABBzkX5SB1kME67QR-CUyZC3pDvO5t68pyrg0cXY8y579C3WjkGWbGK3VxNYi_3XFc2agy4oHQXd1ef4tZEarAT85kusL2Rk4aIn5RI1N/w300-h400/CollaborationGiveawayWinnerPhoto1IMG_8333.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Child Sitting on the Toilet and Holding Dawn's Pirate Book</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi466oMXHjNTxupDwDlCnKHmPhSvBLyhG3pUb_fzXPh4RHcnx4sGPKwVmR-i-9EnnKNzBPOqiBrLeu4dw0WN4RO0Z8ip0GOv8G0MeGfqh7tepXaXtk-WRZLxOyRmcsU8-5D4YcPrUEJV2oBCYhuz_vjc3VSg3vsOlLorPqYd6-1Q0qTTU2kDlhiozhgeeby/s4032/Boys%20with%20Cowgirl%20IMG_9878.JPEG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi466oMXHjNTxupDwDlCnKHmPhSvBLyhG3pUb_fzXPh4RHcnx4sGPKwVmR-i-9EnnKNzBPOqiBrLeu4dw0WN4RO0Z8ip0GOv8G0MeGfqh7tepXaXtk-WRZLxOyRmcsU8-5D4YcPrUEJV2oBCYhuz_vjc3VSg3vsOlLorPqYd6-1Q0qTTU2kDlhiozhgeeby/s320/Boys%20with%20Cowgirl%20IMG_9878.JPEG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two Children Holding Copies of Dawn's Books</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU_TbLcEnEnZVgYMwa6Mrh_B-6_gVbWeDXO6_ZgD061tMrGbL93CS-QBPO23u9JDfe7-d-RzyvM7mWZ3fssUtoS1A3eEBoFfXMYjH-qOVhKWflytA-PEh-URSn90ZicRr8ADSlHLs2d5A5AKHY8fAyu74o_hgowqoR8A4a-SYloap-aFkwOExyEzyaFIqs/s1500/Child%20Reading%20Pirate%20Sent%20by%20Pat%20Bedtime%20with%20Pirate%20755917dc-0592-468b-b9ea-a8dc0d815115.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1125" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU_TbLcEnEnZVgYMwa6Mrh_B-6_gVbWeDXO6_ZgD061tMrGbL93CS-QBPO23u9JDfe7-d-RzyvM7mWZ3fssUtoS1A3eEBoFfXMYjH-qOVhKWflytA-PEh-URSn90ZicRr8ADSlHLs2d5A5AKHY8fAyu74o_hgowqoR8A4a-SYloap-aFkwOExyEzyaFIqs/w300-h400/Child%20Reading%20Pirate%20Sent%20by%20Pat%20Bedtime%20with%20Pirate%20755917dc-0592-468b-b9ea-a8dc0d815115.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Child Snuggled Into Bed Reading Dawn's Pirate Book</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm2qn6ByLKrBeFBra_RzaNuytpelpHioQOeC3-UVF4AhV5IRxOnI1mGMbHh4WksydpyoPsbgVdDrHn4q1WeuJH2o8K9NXrS2Wt3JIOZgKl5NZxXn0whPyUL7NfMBm_3Kyozk0EBR3hJW42366qqt4GThiur-NVHZ6ywYtoky_KhAGn7hRx5-_d0SyrmMz6/s1022/Lucy%20in%20Costa%20Rica.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1022" data-original-width="639" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm2qn6ByLKrBeFBra_RzaNuytpelpHioQOeC3-UVF4AhV5IRxOnI1mGMbHh4WksydpyoPsbgVdDrHn4q1WeuJH2o8K9NXrS2Wt3JIOZgKl5NZxXn0whPyUL7NfMBm_3Kyozk0EBR3hJW42366qqt4GThiur-NVHZ6ywYtoky_KhAGn7hRx5-_d0SyrmMz6/w250-h400/Lucy%20in%20Costa%20Rica.jpg" width="250" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Child Holding a Copy of Dawn's Book, Lucy's Blooms</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Thank you, dear readers, for bringing my books into your homes, schools, and libraries. May you make many happy memories reading my books with the people you love. </p><p>Find more posts on <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/04/the-writing-life-summary-post.html">The Writing Life, here</a>.</p></div></div>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-91987713364276451752023-10-02T09:00:00.006-07:002023-10-02T09:00:00.143-07:00Birth Stories for Books: THE LITTLEST WEAVER, by Robin Hall<p>Dear Readers, one of the best parts of being involved in the kidlit industry is making new friends. Today I have the pleasure of introducing you to <a href="https://www.robinhallwrites.com/">Robin Hall</a> and her debut picture book, <a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-littlest-weaver-robin-hall/19724209?ean=9781641709774">THE LITTLEST WEAVER</a> (illustrated by <a href="https://stellaillust.com/">Stella Lim</a>, <a href="https://www.familius.com/book/the-littlest-weaver/">Familius</a>, October 2023). </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1HrPaO7HKTQSI3GVpH4YiNvuA6OpVGGqQyCndynMSqR61A2FV0WmIRHwjiBGUfMJeXTZd11xhL99tsfydTLHy2YKnqQ5n8rtfO7b20BSk2JNlIhiBwFfgJ4-RSuW74a11Pys11gmcH7CePjjJ3kZasgIXV-aeBrFm0onyG7lAI_PZQWkP4Uv9-50CtP-_/s240/The%20Littlest%20Weaver_cover.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="240" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1HrPaO7HKTQSI3GVpH4YiNvuA6OpVGGqQyCndynMSqR61A2FV0WmIRHwjiBGUfMJeXTZd11xhL99tsfydTLHy2YKnqQ5n8rtfO7b20BSk2JNlIhiBwFfgJ4-RSuW74a11Pys11gmcH7CePjjJ3kZasgIXV-aeBrFm0onyG7lAI_PZQWkP4Uv9-50CtP-_/s1600/The%20Littlest%20Weaver_cover.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">by <a href="https://www.robinhallwrites.com/">Robin Hall</a> and <a href="https://stellaillust.com/">Stella Lim</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p>I became familiar with Robin and her work because we are publishing-house siblings (I have a book with <a href="https://www.familius.com/">Familius</a> coming out in 2025). Robin and I first chatted back in May for an <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cr0_p7aIoVt/">IG Live</a> feature that she hosts, and now I'm so glad to be able to interview her! Grab your favorite blanket, friends--bonus points if it's hand-woven--and settle in for an inspiring conversation with Robin. </p><p><b>Dawn Prochovnic: Welcome to the blog, Robin. I’m looking forward to learning more about the path to publication for your debut picture book, <a href="https://www.familius.com/book/the-littlest-weaver/">THE LITTLEST WEAVER</a>. </b></p><p><b>This is a very tender and touching story. Would you be willing to share the inspiration for it with us, as well as the process and timeframe between your initial idea for this book and the story that was formulated fully enough to submit to an editor? </b> </p><p><b>Robin Hall</b>: Dawn, thank you for your kind words for The LITTLEST WEAVER. This story started from a need I had to finish a news story I heard back in 2011 after the devastation of the Tohoku Japan tsunami and earthquake. I learned of a father who tried to save his family but didn’t make it in time and saw them all be swept out to sea. I couldn’t stop aching for him, so I wrote a short story to give that sad man a happier ending with a bit of hope. Years later, perhaps 2016, I turned that short story into a picture book. It went through many different variations, complete rewrites, and then deep revisions before becoming the story it is now. I submitted it to my publisher, Familius, in 2018 and they gave me a revise and resubmit. It took me until 2020 to figure out those revisions and send it back. Thankfully, they still loved the story.</p><p><b>DP: Oh my goodness, Robin. What a meaningful way to process a difficult news story. And now you've brought something beautiful into the world as a result.</b></p><p><b>When you compare one of your earliest drafts of this story to the version in the published book, what stands out for you in terms of what is most different? Likewise, is there anything in particular that stands out that was included in your earliest drafts and survived the revision process?</b></p><p><b>RH</b>: My original version was set on a whole different continent. One of the best and biggest revisions was to figure out how to make this story my story. I brought it to my home state of North Carolina, with our own hurricanes, and mountains, and strong weaving tradition. </p><p>Something that has stayed the same is the recognition that sometimes we need to let people be sad, to honor that, as part of the healing process. In the book, Laurel says, “Pa, he’s at the cloudy days part. He needs rain showers to get to the rainbow.”</p><p><b>DP: That exchange is such a compelling part of the story. And I love that you chose to set the story in a place that's familiar and meaningful to you. The authenticity really comes through. </b></p><p><b>When you compare your creative process for writing children’s books to your creative process as a weaver, what are some of the key similarities and differences? </b></p><p><b>RH:</b> Whether I’m weaving cloth or weaving a story, they both need a structure. For textiles, we have vertical threads under tension that are called warp threads. This is the structure of the textile and sets the confines for me as a weaver. The weft threads are what is woven over and under, adding color and texture. I think of a story structure as the warp of my stories, while the weft is my setting, characters, time period, tone, etc. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4QlyF8O0E8dVLirrZwLPb0drPTT_GumTJ28aORPt-cWTJC0KN3ed0_6Erj4WwImUkr8mLOW5cxpZ0hJ7Y7xzmIIj3Rlb-qDi7CQfnA5-Pb1l3DlAn_TslZ2S20YTjd2yjKqvaXujtn9AReYEi9uMCvp-JSbHG1fhpMxMsTCA3Up0LGUzaauUwlslCbh44/s320/Robin%20lilstinawarped.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4QlyF8O0E8dVLirrZwLPb0drPTT_GumTJ28aORPt-cWTJC0KN3ed0_6Erj4WwImUkr8mLOW5cxpZ0hJ7Y7xzmIIj3Rlb-qDi7CQfnA5-Pb1l3DlAn_TslZ2S20YTjd2yjKqvaXujtn9AReYEi9uMCvp-JSbHG1fhpMxMsTCA3Up0LGUzaauUwlslCbh44/w300-h400/Robin%20lilstinawarped.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin's loom with two shuttles on a twill pattern</td></tr></tbody></table><p>One thing that is definitely different is I never feel like my writing is done. With weaving, when I get to the end of my warp, the weaving is done, and so am I. It feels good to have projects that so clearly tell me they are done!</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBrfhoJ-a2YpOZ_SiEvJ2yahImpUSj0a56DPvta8R_Wx0fmPplU7qe9g6HDn_QShHu5s4ph7I8jT3GkafDz5b_8GAyq5_lWnt77LF4-Sa-HFHFL_-d__RyGP_U6dmB471CUYyu8EpbVhK7j2ojz8oiVE0krzYdJow3zKyh3NpBiDEIlFIArxNo6lDMye3Z/s320/RobinLoomWool.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBrfhoJ-a2YpOZ_SiEvJ2yahImpUSj0a56DPvta8R_Wx0fmPplU7qe9g6HDn_QShHu5s4ph7I8jT3GkafDz5b_8GAyq5_lWnt77LF4-Sa-HFHFL_-d__RyGP_U6dmB471CUYyu8EpbVhK7j2ojz8oiVE0krzYdJow3zKyh3NpBiDEIlFIArxNo6lDMye3Z/w300-h400/RobinLoomWool.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin standing next to a loom <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA8EQZOHXcPGRAr2pMFvquM6Z0j5ObmZrZ8WLWZiewP5WADknwAc2pWlWMVLuvK7_uL7f66Sl6dYpJP1pfUOgwnytwhI1W2cPuC1nN4TBDnvyU60QbGmL50a-_6f8OtwfhyK5b6wcuA86QFpGFBpZeoKJhN8DA0pgx5iOKzfBZkcnE38Bccy9vgAmRYWMj/s320/RobinWoolBlanket.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA8EQZOHXcPGRAr2pMFvquM6Z0j5ObmZrZ8WLWZiewP5WADknwAc2pWlWMVLuvK7_uL7f66Sl6dYpJP1pfUOgwnytwhI1W2cPuC1nN4TBDnvyU60QbGmL50a-_6f8OtwfhyK5b6wcuA86QFpGFBpZeoKJhN8DA0pgx5iOKzfBZkcnE38Bccy9vgAmRYWMj/w300-h400/RobinWoolBlanket.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin holding a completed wool blanket</td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>DP: I'm so glad I asked this question! I LOVE your response. It's so vivid and instructive.</b></p><p><b>One of my favorite parts of being an author is connecting with young readers at school, library, and bookstore visits, and I’m always looking for new pro tips. Given your experience teaching a myriad of classes, hosting Instagram Live events and now as a visiting children’s book author, what professional advice or suggestions do you have for fellow author/presenters in terms of planning successful (in-person and/or remote) book events? </b></p><p><b>RH:</b> I’m still pretty new to being a published author and slowly figuring that out myself. What seems to work is communicating my vision beforehand and leaning into what I know I can do well. </p><p>I also strongly believe in standing in a superhero pose, legs wide, chest proud, hands on my hips, and taking three deep breaths before presentations. Science shows it improves confidence, and it sure does for me. Plus, it helps me take myself a little less seriously and remember to have fun!</p><p><b>DP: Great, practical tips, Robin!</b></p><p><b>If you could go back in time, what would you tell your pre-published self? Or, said another way, what do you know now, that you wished you would have known a bit earlier?</b></p><p><b>RH:</b> Be patient with the process. Focus on the things I can control (writing a good story) and let go of the rest as best you can.</p><p>I also wish I’d known that being author is a little bit like being a mother, we wear a lot of hats. Writer, editor, advocate, publicist, accountant, social media expert, photographer, videographer, and so much more. </p><p><b>DP: That is for sure!</b></p><p><b>Is there something you wish someone would ask you about your path to publication for THE LITTLEST WEAVER, that you haven’t had the opportunity to share yet? </b></p><p><b>RH</b>: My book is releasing during <a href="https://weavespindye.org/spinning-and-weaving-week-2023/">National Spinning and Weaving Week</a>, and it’s something I had no control over, and my publisher didn’t even know about until I told them. It feels just right to be born during this week.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjesHSHSNch5bMylZFEdunUDvmmnc-z56dmFTwe3RY78Y4bbbZ0Wosv4E-chQmA7IQuvwb9TFuvvfH80oEmrO_zuvcF79ObA06PDuv2EWokJQFqiQPy9Qybhxay7eaSL7mblA70ak7S0qfBqb8p1zTQWTo_lUdXUk0fEl_6X7aDtaNVrvqgWiG98VhR7nUW/s307/Robin%20with%20table%20loom.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="307" data-original-width="241" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjesHSHSNch5bMylZFEdunUDvmmnc-z56dmFTwe3RY78Y4bbbZ0Wosv4E-chQmA7IQuvwb9TFuvvfH80oEmrO_zuvcF79ObA06PDuv2EWokJQFqiQPy9Qybhxay7eaSL7mblA70ak7S0qfBqb8p1zTQWTo_lUdXUk0fEl_6X7aDtaNVrvqgWiG98VhR7nUW/s1600/Robin%20with%20table%20loom.jpeg" width="241" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin with a table loom holding one of her favorite weaving books</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><b>DP: That is really amazing, Robin. The perfect week for this book to be born, indeed!</b></p><p><b>Do you have anything you’d like to tell us about what you’re currently working on? </b></p><p><b>RH:</b> I’m working on multiple picture books and am also revising a historical fiction middle grade about a boy afraid of water who has to move to a lighthouse. </p><p><b>DP: I look forward to hearing more about these projects as they come to fruition! </b></p><p><b>Thanks so much for sharing your Birth Story for THE LITTLEST WEAVER with us, Robin! </b></p><p><b>Friends, you can support Robin's work by ordering a copy of her debut at all of the usual places including <a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-littlest-weaver-robin-hall/19724209?ean=9781641709774">Bookshop</a> , your local indie bookstore and/or <a href="https://www.worldcat.org/title/1398311475">your local library</a>. You can also order directly from <a href="https://www.familius.com/book/the-littlest-weaver/">the publisher</a>.</b></p><p><br /></p><p>**********</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLbCaIvgC6pEN849aGXwsXFKGi8hzkndtlkDG6J-0FMj-mHKExE2NonVz-BtkPZuzbtiE8UD3sYcWrx6Zdq3lWCw_o9m8FfnAdVgCsTdUFjXbvqfBv4GjKalHhRAMffFgBlFI5KwsOCrMild6Wv6wjc2XIQJpUyXi4HT4K3NUX3aEMiXRoAxUWfQzZgzzT/s1372/Robin%20Hall%20headshotcropped696kb.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1192" data-original-width="1372" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLbCaIvgC6pEN849aGXwsXFKGi8hzkndtlkDG6J-0FMj-mHKExE2NonVz-BtkPZuzbtiE8UD3sYcWrx6Zdq3lWCw_o9m8FfnAdVgCsTdUFjXbvqfBv4GjKalHhRAMffFgBlFI5KwsOCrMild6Wv6wjc2XIQJpUyXi4HT4K3NUX3aEMiXRoAxUWfQzZgzzT/s320/Robin%20Hall%20headshotcropped696kb.png" width="320" /></a></div>Robin Hall holds an MFA in the Writing for Children and Young Adults from Vermont College of Fine Arts. Her debut picture book, THE LITTLEST WEAVER, will release Fall 2023. She teaches creative writing to children, yoga to all ages, and lives in North Carolina on a tiny farm with one husband, five children, four dogs, three looms, and too many chickens to count. Visit Robin at <a href="http://www.robinhallwrites.com">www.robinhallwrites.com</a> and on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/robinhallwrites/">instagram</a>/<a href="https://twitter.com/robinhallwrites">Twitter</a> @robinhallwrites. <br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>********</p><p><a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a> is an occasional feature of Dawn Babb Prochovnic's blog. Dawn is the recipient of the 2023 Walt Morey Young Readers Literary Legacy Award and the author of multiple picture books including, <i>Lucy's Blooms</i>, <i>Where Does a Cowgirl Go Potty?</i>, <i>Where Does a Pirate Go Potty?</i>, and 16 books in the <i>Story Time With Signs & Rhymes</i> series. Dawn is a contributing author to the award-winning book, <i>Oregon Reads Aloud</i>, and a frequent presenter at schools, libraries, and educational conferences. Contact Dawn using the form at the left, or learn more at <a href="http://www.dawnprochovnic.com">www.dawnprochovnic.com</a>. </p>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-32048631911513660632023-08-23T07:52:00.000-07:002023-08-23T07:52:04.348-07:00The Creative Recharge Part of the Writing Life<p>I've been quiet on social channels this past few months. </p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQghMaZUq_3S3bfsm3fGFMJnzEwroQoNGa-bDnSwORmCDrjqhjH3GaAXvthIo88k5h0QbLkooZd61f8_uIdH2gO4Yxt-K_VTkE6_fNmleiIJXMSyOLbY3XFyd7PiKo89pE86Osg4R8qyDRBJGivNzKcJgj1B7loIKUAso1ZcCsrgftgmagppLxxc1t2UYW/s640/IMG_7119%20Medium.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQghMaZUq_3S3bfsm3fGFMJnzEwroQoNGa-bDnSwORmCDrjqhjH3GaAXvthIo88k5h0QbLkooZd61f8_uIdH2gO4Yxt-K_VTkE6_fNmleiIJXMSyOLbY3XFyd7PiKo89pE86Osg4R8qyDRBJGivNzKcJgj1B7loIKUAso1ZcCsrgftgmagppLxxc1t2UYW/w300-h400/IMG_7119%20Medium.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tualatin River Float</td></tr></tbody></table><p>That doesn't mean I've been quiet, creatively. In fact, quite the opposite. I've written new stories, made meaningful revisions to others, read stacks of mentor texts, and started actively experimenting to find my voice in new (to me) genres. </p><p>Although engaging in social channels is an important part of the work (and, indeed, helps me meet fellow creatives and other industry professionals, while opening doors to new ideas and information that aligns with my creative goals), it can also sap my creative energy and take away from my writing time. </p><p>When I'm feeling overwhelmed or depleted, one of the best things I can do for myself is get out into nature. </p><p>And one of my favorite ways to commune with nature is paddling and/or floating on the gentle sections of the <a href="https://tualatinvalley.org/local-favorites/tours-routes-trails/tualatin-river-water-trail/">Tualatin</a> or <a href="https://www.bendparksandrec.org/float/">Deschutes</a> Rivers. One is near my home in Portland, Oregon. The other is near my home-away-from home in Central Oregon. Both are stunning, and both are replete with sensory details that often find their ways into my stories. </p><p>I also love visiting <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/deschutes/recarea/?recid=71999">South Twin Lake</a>, the <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/deschutes/recarea/?recid=81738">Cascade Lakes</a> in Central, Oregon, and <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/deschutes/recreation/recarea/?recid=66159">Paulina Lake in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument</a>. </p><p>Here are some pics of "Sweet Sophs," one of my favorite paddling companions, relaxing, exploring, and marveling at the natural world around us:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO28Se4UmPVvFMLJCUhLo4Tmiax6CQ30fAsgjpLku72yhcHFrGbOd0wx3JvkK5C0tl1puzHLPWTDQ-rwPKJFXJkJQOOPWQ5sBM8xkM01UHs5be6Ul9xu0Iw3nPxfz4JpAa4U77w2wzxZ_SBaOor4zRT4vBIqaCa9OUwYHAKf-HO_tunNvTs77PYyUpl7w1/s640/IMG_7172%20Medium.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO28Se4UmPVvFMLJCUhLo4Tmiax6CQ30fAsgjpLku72yhcHFrGbOd0wx3JvkK5C0tl1puzHLPWTDQ-rwPKJFXJkJQOOPWQ5sBM8xkM01UHs5be6Ul9xu0Iw3nPxfz4JpAa4U77w2wzxZ_SBaOor4zRT4vBIqaCa9OUwYHAKf-HO_tunNvTs77PYyUpl7w1/w300-h400/IMG_7172%20Medium.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deschutes River Float</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbEO55bdPkSD1PSKWGOBG3smGyloMskaSqbMkq2Vk3q4fJpllFatVZWD2-MccqtErpsqf_JdxDd_84hiW6AKXNWxFUBSa112F8DSoGyhapotHqE3YECsCls0-AM5peE6spFqBDSICXUGoGl9EGvoT2WYxpnBy2L_GXfdxugBDDPae-eRpb-HegCbhP6y7k/s640/IMG_6977%20Medium.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbEO55bdPkSD1PSKWGOBG3smGyloMskaSqbMkq2Vk3q4fJpllFatVZWD2-MccqtErpsqf_JdxDd_84hiW6AKXNWxFUBSa112F8DSoGyhapotHqE3YECsCls0-AM5peE6spFqBDSICXUGoGl9EGvoT2WYxpnBy2L_GXfdxugBDDPae-eRpb-HegCbhP6y7k/w300-h400/IMG_6977%20Medium.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paulina Lake Paddle</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCwnm2DkzScwzkY4kVhodkNvD9ma9x0N3FDSWGldTMz9Egv5dorurDSx4R0FSY40wj8FBs22AXDUkP-6ZuqcW3vjYEjF7M3qptG0JrfUK__v-Rcjd7GJPsx7TV2XsS_upyVKYh7JHh-MgIhU4LBgqQ97j6B2G6sU9RFjGgRe2BVYeCKhUpuX2dM5PfvtyL/s640/IMG_6979%20Medium.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="564" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCwnm2DkzScwzkY4kVhodkNvD9ma9x0N3FDSWGldTMz9Egv5dorurDSx4R0FSY40wj8FBs22AXDUkP-6ZuqcW3vjYEjF7M3qptG0JrfUK__v-Rcjd7GJPsx7TV2XsS_upyVKYh7JHh-MgIhU4LBgqQ97j6B2G6sU9RFjGgRe2BVYeCKhUpuX2dM5PfvtyL/s320/IMG_6979%20Medium.jpeg" width="282" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Relaxing on Paulina Lake</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>Do you have a favorite place or way to creatively recharge? I'd love to hear. </div><div><br /></div><div>Find more of my posts about the Writing Life, <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/04/the-writing-life-summary-post.html">here</a>. </div>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-49912502501242372222023-04-11T11:59:00.008-07:002023-04-11T13:42:14.019-07:00The Literary Legacy Part of the Writing Life<p>Last week I was honored with the <a href="https://literary-arts.org/2023/04/2023-oregon-book-awards-in-the-news/">Walt Morey Young Readers Literary Legacy Award</a>, an award presented by the <a href="https://literary-arts.org/councils/">Programs for Writers Advisory Council</a> and the <a href="https://literary-arts.org/board-of-directors/">Board of Directors</a> of Literary Arts to a person or organization in recognition of significant contributions that have enriched Oregon's young readers. <a href="https://literary-arts.org/">Literary Arts</a> is a community-based nonprofit with a mission to "engage readers, support writers, and inspire the next generation with great literature." </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVEPP985-tDcuxOiDOYs3zjseOKBFX2ILUzUC94nZcG-0DF0PmDadSPNwMODmD4BKS55LQn_FWMAUO3dfDpZgFcpJ7LWO-tfJCLJxet8DGWTkPbFU24r_iIsMnO9fp-02wpaateOz36cJKlDfXmheepJHWtMcit6k4hpceIw0UjxXTaBsJUZbPTDsIA/s3000/BA23-259.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1998" data-original-width="3000" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVEPP985-tDcuxOiDOYs3zjseOKBFX2ILUzUC94nZcG-0DF0PmDadSPNwMODmD4BKS55LQn_FWMAUO3dfDpZgFcpJ7LWO-tfJCLJxet8DGWTkPbFU24r_iIsMnO9fp-02wpaateOz36cJKlDfXmheepJHWtMcit6k4hpceIw0UjxXTaBsJUZbPTDsIA/w400-h266/BA23-259.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Credit: <a href="https://andiepetkus.zenfolio.com/p1059073274">Andie Petkus Photography</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>To say I was in utter shock and disbelief when I received word of receiving this award is quite the understatement. <a href="https://www.oregonencyclopedia.org/articles/morey_walt/#.ZDWtPOzMJ_Q">Walt Morey</a> is a big name, and his legacy runs deep. It’s been hard for me to comprehend how I’ve been selected for an award in his honor. </p><p>This is not me being humble. </p><div>Last year my publishing income shrunk to the point that my accountant said I was at risk for the IRS considering me a hobbyist because, and I quote, "They frown on people who are bad at their business." I’ve been rejected by many an agent and editor, but now by my accountant and the IRS? That was hard to hear. </div><div><div><br /></div><div>And so I hollered out to the Universe: “Hey, I need another book contract with a nice advance. Soon.” </div><div><br /></div><div>And the Universe replied, “How about a highly esteemed literary legacy award, instead?” </div><div><br /></div><div>“Say, what?”</div></div><div><br /></div><div>I am not a hobbyist. I am, in fact, quite serious about my work. And, like the main character in my picture book, <span style="font-style: italic;"><a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/lucy-s-blooms-dawn-babb-prochovnic/15432874?ean=9781513267197">Lucy’s Blooms</a></span>, I’m as persistent as all get out. But you can’t fault me for wondering how my name got flagged for this meaningful acknowledgement. What one big thing had I possibly done to take someone’s notice in a field of literary giants, many of whom would be sitting in the room when I received my award?</div><div><br /></div><div>These questions prompted me to reflect on the work that I've done. The work that I hold most dear: teaching early literacy workshops, writing books for young readers, advocating for strong school libraries, mentoring aspiring writers, amplifying the voices of other authors via my blog, writing to my lawmakers to let them know where I stand on key issues, knocking on doors to remind my friends and neighbors to vote, caring for and advocating for my family members and the community, the world, that we live in. </div><div><br /></div><div>I am the poster child for small steps, and in my experience, little action items add up to bigger action items. This is what I thought about as I wrote my acceptance speech, which I've shared below: </div><div><br /></div><div>***</div><div><br /></div><div><div>Thank you Literary Arts and to the kind people who nominated me for this award. I am honored and humbled. Thank you to my family for all the love and laughter, and to my parents for filling my childhood home with books.</div><div> </div><div>I'd also like to give a shout-out to my fifth-grade teacher, Mr. Snook, for his annual reading contest. The student who read the most books each year won the coveted Pleasure Reading Award; a trophy I proudly brought home in 1978.</div><div> </div><div>That cheesy award trophy, now glued together in places, continues to motivate young readers when I share it at author visits. I also like to share tattered copies of some of the titles I breezed through to boost my book count, books like <i>The Digging-est Dog</i>, <i>A Fly Went By</i>. Back then I thought I was gaming the system by including quick, easy reads on my list, but as Mr. Snook likely knew, all of the reading counted. The lyrical sounds, rhythm, and rhyme in these stories contributed to my love of language, and similar patterns found their way into my own writing. Writing that eventually became books for a new generation of young readers. </div><div> </div><div>Such lovely things were just said about me. What wasn’t said is that I currently have a myriad of manuscripts sitting in slush piles. I’ve yet to find an agent. The publisher I worked with on my last four books was recently sold to another company, and my next book with another publisher just got delayed to 2025. Not quite the resume one imagines bringing home big awards. </div><div> </div><div>Over the past weeks, I’ve heard from friends and colleagues who wanted to share their reflections about Walt Morey. Although his books certainly made a lasting impression, what people most wanted to talk about was meeting him at school author visits, decades ago. One person summed it up best saying, “Walt Morey engaged with us as if we mattered.” </div><div> </div><div>And that’s when it hit me that our body of work, our literary legacy, extends well beyond the books that we write and manage to get published. </div><div> </div><div>Each of us in this room has the power to influence the literary landscape in our communities, in our schools and libraries, and within our families.</div><div> </div><div>Someone in this room read a book by a local author to a child today. Someone else made a purchase at an indie bookstore. I’ll bet someone volunteered at their local library, someone gifted a book to a classroom teacher, and someone wrote a kind letter that will be read and re-read again and again.</div><div> </div><div>Mr. Snook held a reading contest in 1978 that played a part in this year’s Walt Morey award. </div><div> </div><div>What if tonight’s gathering inspired each of us to take one more seemingly small action to benefit a young reader, or a children’s book author, or a professional who gets books into the hands of young readers. Imagine the legacy that together we’ll leave. Thank you. </div></div><div><br /></div><br /><div>***</div><div><div><br /></div><div>Home Video of <a href="https://www.armintolentino.com/">Armin Tolentino's</a> introduction of Dawn and <a href="https://youtu.be/YtDxhU7g0K4">Dawn's Acceptance Speech</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YtDxhU7g0K4" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe> </div><div><br /></div><div>I will treasure Armin's words, and this award, for a long, long time.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Here I am celebrating with family and friends:</div><div><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG-s2gGxsWHkLe2h8FJxtwVkkTulEppEIgUNjz9EtIkhdKOwJkgkUblIJbAhPGxK_bavvun5a2EhRrc275BvcOeJ5FtlYg1oSao0hZLqwR0sZO1WoqnzsLOWbhawwiYy67gF_zxvgRI6mf5tZFtqDnUjDQBTKVsuZNu3hDmkgXK9PpI2rI_3XNM3gl2Q/s3000/BA23-032.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2003" data-original-width="3000" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG-s2gGxsWHkLe2h8FJxtwVkkTulEppEIgUNjz9EtIkhdKOwJkgkUblIJbAhPGxK_bavvun5a2EhRrc275BvcOeJ5FtlYg1oSao0hZLqwR0sZO1WoqnzsLOWbhawwiYy67gF_zxvgRI6mf5tZFtqDnUjDQBTKVsuZNu3hDmkgXK9PpI2rI_3XNM3gl2Q/w400-h268/BA23-032.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Credit: <a href="https://andiepetkus.zenfolio.com/p1059073274">Andie Petkus Photography</a></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdVmchEU5JhQRqZU665oXoBexbftS83gPfIVTyw8P7vcMlOBY1T929GcZgS6tssE0ogq2nfPZWz26ijtF7fJv2NbX-k66jPiQt5gTUYdtlJTKuic3wyJNJXKnQBYEuqvfcCeXuUs5oxbTilV6FpmJbNNh2sTHiRcoBDnPbUo07Rz-kSKXMLgacHQHuOQ/s3000/BA23-581.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2003" data-original-width="3000" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdVmchEU5JhQRqZU665oXoBexbftS83gPfIVTyw8P7vcMlOBY1T929GcZgS6tssE0ogq2nfPZWz26ijtF7fJv2NbX-k66jPiQt5gTUYdtlJTKuic3wyJNJXKnQBYEuqvfcCeXuUs5oxbTilV6FpmJbNNh2sTHiRcoBDnPbUo07Rz-kSKXMLgacHQHuOQ/w400-h268/BA23-581.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Credit: <a href="https://andiepetkus.zenfolio.com/p1059073274">Andie Petkus Photography</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>More photos of the event by <a href="https://andiepetkus.zenfolio.com/p1059073274">Andie Petkus Photography </a> can be found <a href="https://andiepetkus.zenfolio.com/p1059073274 ">here</a>. </div></div><div><br /></div><div>Last, but certainly not least, here I am with fellow author, <a href="https://www.stephanieshawauthor.com/">Stephanie Shaw</a>. She's the person who spearheaded the award nomination, and she is an amazing author and literacy advocate in her own right. Her latest book, <i><a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/all-by-myself-stephanie-shaw/18501341?ean=9781682634875">All By Myself</a></i>, JUST hit bookstores. NOW would be a great time to <a href="https://www.stephanieshawauthor.com/works.htm">support HER work</a> and your favorite <a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/all-by-myself-stephanie-shaw/18501341?ean=9781682634875">local indie bookstore</a>.<br /><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggB8iGWzs-Dq0anst53QSolA9BXA-n16nlMeGsrYpdjRMyZEjSaQ4wumQNk4IJpNbR1sn45hRNy4I1l_6aAKuWf3Vp1nMUoLzP4eRDIA7VgSS_CZ5ZATdHY0JukJFK6XDzotLbRe6o9AeqyJ6WmFOFmLg7oEMrj7QAHteeP9bs84KFeixVUhRS6dGJBw/s2048/Dawn%20and%20Stephanie.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1527" data-original-width="2048" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggB8iGWzs-Dq0anst53QSolA9BXA-n16nlMeGsrYpdjRMyZEjSaQ4wumQNk4IJpNbR1sn45hRNy4I1l_6aAKuWf3Vp1nMUoLzP4eRDIA7VgSS_CZ5ZATdHY0JukJFK6XDzotLbRe6o9AeqyJ6WmFOFmLg7oEMrj7QAHteeP9bs84KFeixVUhRS6dGJBw/w400-h299/Dawn%20and%20Stephanie.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Credit: Family of Stephanie Shaw</td></tr></tbody></table><div><div><div><br /></div><div>Need some additional ideas on how to make a difference in your literary landscape? Get in touch. It doesn’t have to be something big to make a difference. I promise. </div><!--?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?--><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div><div>****</div><div><br /></div><div>Media mentions about the award announcement: </div><div><br /></div><div>Oregon Public Broadcasting: https://www.opb.org/article/2023/04/04/portland-oregon-book-awards-writers-authors-local-pacific-northwest/</div><div><br /></div><div>Portland Mercury: https://www.portlandmercury.com/books/2023/04/04/46439433/new-literary-names-sindya-bhanoo-and-casey-parks-win-big-at-the-2023-oregon-book-awards</div><div><br /></div><div>Portland Tribune: https://www.portlandtribune.com/lifestyle/heres-who-won-oregon-book-awards-for-2023/article_5b3d87a0-d32c-11ed-9ec6-57321260fecf.html</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Oregon Artswatch: https://www.orartswatch.org/sindya-bhanoos-seeking-fortune-elsewhere-wins-oregon-book-award-for-fiction/ </div>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-50545609172286999132023-03-07T15:06:00.004-08:002023-03-08T00:20:51.447-08:00The "Walking Away" Part of the Writing Life<p>Sometimes the very best thing I can do for one of my stories is to walk away from it. I often come back to the stories I've set aside, but setting a story aside and coming back to it with fresh eyes after some time has passed helps me see problems (and solutions) I didn't see before. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivuTLZb1tmh3ytX6j0ZfN9apErEiMj12rr99ea2YT1Dx0ee02MEHwpz43pse1rWe01tjq-cnwPn9gbbZCjdfm1zVkM-pI5b0UG4qqogQCtyGEnA0AyaKrrsH1sdGisRCHqk45y16wP-VDjkvhw9NjiQlh8znQhWfyu8jA59AWtilf7Y05Bi1fLEzIOBQ/s640/Hiking%20Boots.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivuTLZb1tmh3ytX6j0ZfN9apErEiMj12rr99ea2YT1Dx0ee02MEHwpz43pse1rWe01tjq-cnwPn9gbbZCjdfm1zVkM-pI5b0UG4qqogQCtyGEnA0AyaKrrsH1sdGisRCHqk45y16wP-VDjkvhw9NjiQlh8znQhWfyu8jA59AWtilf7Y05Bi1fLEzIOBQ/s320/Hiking%20Boots.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawn's beloved purple hiking boots</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Stepping out into nature is also extremely helpful to me in terms of generating new story ideas. It's as though the story-generating part of my brain requires motion and beautiful scenery in order to operate properly! </p><p>I live in Portland, Oregon and spend quite a bit of time in Central Oregon. Both areas offer many beautiful opportunities to explore the great outdoors. This past week I had the good fortune of enjoying several snow hikes, and I also spent one (long and exhausting!) afternoon snow shoeing. </p><p>I decided I would create a blog post to help me organize and share some of my favorite places to hike in Central Oregon. I'll populate this initial post with the places I most recently explored, but I'll add new locations/updates over time, so definitely bookmark this page for your own reference. </p><p>And now for the obligatory disclaimers and safety tips: I am not an outdoor guide. This blog post summarizes some of the beautiful places I've enjoyed hiking and snow shoeing, but please do your own research before you head out into the woods. Bring food, water, and emergency supplies with you when you go out exploring; be a good steward of our natural spaces and places; let folks know where you are going before you head out; and travel with a buddy.</p><p>For those of you looking for an actual guidebook, one of my favorites is <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Overall-Hiking-Exploring-Central-Oregon/dp/0979923255/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=bend+overall+book&qid=1678217336&sprefix=bend+overall%2Caps%2C167&sr=8-1">Bend, Overall</a></i> by Scott Cook. The most recent edition of this book was published in 2010, and the author has since moved to New Zealand, so I don't anticipate it will be updated again. I'm sure there are more current (and thus more accurate) books available, but this is the one I've dog-eared over the years and still turn to as a general starting point for Central Oregon outings. My husband regularly references the <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/us/oregon">AllTrails Website and App</a> before/during our outings, for more up-to-the-moment info about trail conditions and routes. </p><p>Here are some of the routes we have recently enjoyed:</p><p>*****</p><p><b>Deschutes River Trail at <a href="https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=32">LaPine State Park</a></b> (<a href="https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=main.loadFile&load=_siteFiles%2Fpublications%2F%2F49117_LaPine_Wayfinding_Map_24x36_%28web%29014935.pdf">PDF of LaPine State Park Map</a>):</p><p>During the winter months we have hiked this trail with snow shoes, slip-on traction cleats, and snow boots. This is trail I prefer in the winter vs. the spring/summer because the "walls" that border the far side of the river are prettier when they are covered with snow versus bare soil. One of the times we walked this trail we were escorted by a very vocal eagle. It was a breathtaking experience and one that has not repeated itself, but we keep hoping we will cross paths with such a majestic living creature again in the future. We park near the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Don+McGregor+Memorial+Viewpoint/@43.7762861,-121.5394624,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x54b89ef612c8ce85:0xaab0ca6c1a3dab82!8m2!3d43.7762715!4d-121.5307076!16s%2Fg%2F11qntqrrtf">Don McGregor Memorial Viewpoint</a> and hike along the Deschutes River Trail with the river to our left until just past the <a href="https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=32">cabins for rent</a> when the trail makes a sharp turn to the right. When we hiked in snow boots on 2/28/23, the sun came out at our turn around spot where we stop for lunch. It was glorious! (Last visited 2/28/23)</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixTIKuYPdyGHQU_nsMjAuEBVwVFA8Cg7TK5nHSmelxs6IoycP_nq9hjROacB7Zj8oB3J8wxhfCRfs1vZMTL8hUiKncBMNR5X6Otuh5qCzmjWhfQJDv507EJFuu7qN0GVL6KSqDmHhMqcpOkzph8QPN7Zuz_WGsNbOGJmjI00zMRkn7ju-dyMqOVAAmfw/s640/Deschutes%20River%20Trail%201.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixTIKuYPdyGHQU_nsMjAuEBVwVFA8Cg7TK5nHSmelxs6IoycP_nq9hjROacB7Zj8oB3J8wxhfCRfs1vZMTL8hUiKncBMNR5X6Otuh5qCzmjWhfQJDv507EJFuu7qN0GVL6KSqDmHhMqcpOkzph8QPN7Zuz_WGsNbOGJmjI00zMRkn7ju-dyMqOVAAmfw/w300-h400/Deschutes%20River%20Trail%201.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Deschutes River from Don McGregor Memorial Viewpoint</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgag7LXqYcpC44Z-S1JN8DA8wLIi5xvBX0OyNtVcAeSbKGe91E-p6itriECMHaqc7XBsyDw6m3VmRUMr-AD_0_w0sxWD6Bi8wlEhO_SS-4MjglILXd2LdSW0i9XsL8eiUSuc3UdVmueEeWpSOuXjYzqwloAufbj7dng4RiJXoTc1KjfVXCd0esASjJp0A/s640/Deschutes%20River%20Trail%20Sunshine.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgag7LXqYcpC44Z-S1JN8DA8wLIi5xvBX0OyNtVcAeSbKGe91E-p6itriECMHaqc7XBsyDw6m3VmRUMr-AD_0_w0sxWD6Bi8wlEhO_SS-4MjglILXd2LdSW0i9XsL8eiUSuc3UdVmueEeWpSOuXjYzqwloAufbj7dng4RiJXoTc1KjfVXCd0esASjJp0A/w300-h400/Deschutes%20River%20Trail%20Sunshine.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sun shining down on us and on the snowy trail alongside the Deschutes River<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/deschutes/recarea/?recid=38852">Dutchman Sno-Park Trail Head</a> to <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/deschutes/recreation/recarea/?recid=39310">Todd Lake</a></b> (<a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1079580.pdf">PDF of Nordic Map</a>):</p><p>We've done this route previously when the snow shoe trails were more groomed/packed down, but our visit on 3/1/23 was timed directly after some significant area snowfall, so the trail was very soft, deep, and not very wide. We even made the mistake of going along the nordic trail for a bit of time, (which also wasn't groomed, but was a bit wider, and which (rightfully) irritated a pair of nordic skiers we briefly crossed paths with). The route to <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/deschutes/recreation/recarea/?recid=39310">Todd Lake</a> is about 3 miles in (and apparently down hill, which we didn't fully grasp until the 3-mile hike back out)! We hiked to the lake, patted down a section of snow alongside the frozen lake to sit on while we ate lunch, and took in the glorious views of Broken Top until our fingers froze and we needed to get moving again. The soft, deep snow combined with the climb out (and it being our forth straight day of snow hikes, but our first hike of the season with snow shoes) left us more exhausted than exhilarated, but the views on this trail and at our lunch break spot are absolutely spectacular and well worth the trek. (Last visited 3/1/2023)</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiClRUgsCZvjPkP4NhwL5W6d8nHZ2UAljP3GBBQ8_Ay83WMQterBW2nEnK-6dD14sr3glkdk_1lWPmJTpcGYhRo_AyNtFYzJ1G8Vxt-xQRIDrSyhXL3Dm_ljpif6PF5k_MvkZkc0Wbg4suIF0ZBu3YRX9SEhQZrueSoon2qeI_TG6hDzuaAxHNXvTwXA/s1280/Heading%20out%20on%20Dutchman%20Flat%20trail%20with%20mountains%20in%20view.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiClRUgsCZvjPkP4NhwL5W6d8nHZ2UAljP3GBBQ8_Ay83WMQterBW2nEnK-6dD14sr3glkdk_1lWPmJTpcGYhRo_AyNtFYzJ1G8Vxt-xQRIDrSyhXL3Dm_ljpif6PF5k_MvkZkc0Wbg4suIF0ZBu3YRX9SEhQZrueSoon2qeI_TG6hDzuaAxHNXvTwXA/w300-h400/Heading%20out%20on%20Dutchman%20Flat%20trail%20with%20mountains%20in%20view.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading out on Dutchman Flat Trail with Broken Top Mountain in View</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhewgjELkoVM6kBjXYJJv6-LN93y0Zf_CRNXO3kcBXx3qAVeYnIyo1Gx27C4OsM0FfKJlL0U4puaf1nXK0A_mVmMkGCupDnuZxQ2Jw00PB_HUEfvEwSLE2Ye3m7Cp4yR_i8ZvlF-aNcW2SHwAjvEVFmziNJW1on7xrnWDreN6nCC_xKe6_76J1OGIQBw/s1280/Heading%20Deeper%20into%20the%20Forest%20on%20Dutchman%20Trail.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhewgjELkoVM6kBjXYJJv6-LN93y0Zf_CRNXO3kcBXx3qAVeYnIyo1Gx27C4OsM0FfKJlL0U4puaf1nXK0A_mVmMkGCupDnuZxQ2Jw00PB_HUEfvEwSLE2Ye3m7Cp4yR_i8ZvlF-aNcW2SHwAjvEVFmziNJW1on7xrnWDreN6nCC_xKe6_76J1OGIQBw/w300-h400/Heading%20Deeper%20into%20the%20Forest%20on%20Dutchman%20Trail.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading deeper into the forest on Dutchman Trail</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPJeJ2xSCnTF5NnQpyH6PgDfnF4b7nfgQ-TE1qijy5Uj0Qy5MfKCaBudx-RAWoISmZMTcZ8lA42_lC3xwuwyqDddmFxk4MeRYacQXA3tQJADNl_joorqF42YZFGjB0x6vXadYFp1bGO3tQknyVEIK49SJ-UgvMowbf0LLILhFVehKCsRSF9Cj_TBlFfg/s1280/View%20of%20Broken%20Top%20Mountain%20from%20Frozen%20Over%20Todd%20Lake.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPJeJ2xSCnTF5NnQpyH6PgDfnF4b7nfgQ-TE1qijy5Uj0Qy5MfKCaBudx-RAWoISmZMTcZ8lA42_lC3xwuwyqDddmFxk4MeRYacQXA3tQJADNl_joorqF42YZFGjB0x6vXadYFp1bGO3tQknyVEIK49SJ-UgvMowbf0LLILhFVehKCsRSF9Cj_TBlFfg/w300-h400/View%20of%20Broken%20Top%20Mountain%20from%20Frozen%20Over%20Todd%20Lake.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Broken Top Mountain from our lunch spot along the snow covered shores of frozen Todd Lake<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/deschutes/recreation/recarea/?recid=72003">Fall River</a> from Day Use Parking Area Near <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/deschutes/recarea/?recid=38356">Fall River Campground</a> to <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/deschutes/recarea/?recid=49933">Fall River Guard Station</a></b>:</p><p>This is one of our very favorite go-to outings. It's easy to get to from our place in Sunriver, it's a simple walk alongside one of the clearest and most beautiful rivers I've ever seen, and it's as gorgeous and satisfying in the summer months as it is in the winter months. We park at the day use area of the <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/deschutes/recarea/?recid=38356">Fall River Campground</a>, which is near a beautiful wooden bridge. We don't cross the bridge, but we nearly always hang out on it for a few minutes to spy on the fish and/or watch the fly fisherman. We walk along the fisherman paths with the river on our left until we reach the end of the river (or more accurately, the beginning of the river). This river literally springs out from ground. Coming from the other direction, one minute there is nothing but forest, and the next minute there is a majestic long and winding river that springs from the ground. This area is our turnaround spot. It's also the place we typically break for lunch or a snack before turning around. There is a parking area and a <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/deschutes/recarea/?recid=49933">primitive rental cabin</a> in this location, so the hike we typically do could easily be done in reverse, starting where the river begins, and ending at the wooden bridge. I never grow tired of looking at Fall River and can't wait to return. (Last visited 2/27/23)</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh40kEwygLuuF2jYPVhZggLTaUNYAWQt_BjTMN7-UoWumv70GjP-DgYx6N4o4CSl16nwqN2nxo9VVRI0mg8ach5eE0PND5NVXG7XAZNUScdIehAZWU15qTrRgJPyeMXq2uzw3iYE6HrmHNf6_9lhGTtvoKvBkvRa26Se2njeX5j272t7jdglNE4sISB7A/s1280/Winter%20View%20of%20Fall%20River%20From%20the%20Wooden%20Bridge.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh40kEwygLuuF2jYPVhZggLTaUNYAWQt_BjTMN7-UoWumv70GjP-DgYx6N4o4CSl16nwqN2nxo9VVRI0mg8ach5eE0PND5NVXG7XAZNUScdIehAZWU15qTrRgJPyeMXq2uzw3iYE6HrmHNf6_9lhGTtvoKvBkvRa26Se2njeX5j272t7jdglNE4sISB7A/w300-h400/Winter%20View%20of%20Fall%20River%20From%20the%20Wooden%20Bridge.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter view of Fall River from the bridge</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><b><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/deschutes/recarea/?recid=38410">McKay Crossing</a> up to <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Island+Falls/@43.7140009,-121.3315464,14z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x54b884dcefb8774d:0xf9add24e94a059b!8m2!3d43.7135861!4d-121.3341749!16s%2Fg%2F11bv2l5h_l">Island Falls</a> alongside <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Paulina+Creek/@43.7169341,-121.3889565,13z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x54b884cb96f7c00b:0x54537f2a9596fa09!8m2!3d43.7162751!4d-121.3595055!16s%2Fg%2F11gb40zcxn">Paulina Creek</a></b>: </p><p>The official name for this trail is the <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/r6/recreation">Peter Skene Ogden Trail</a>. We park in the (very small) day use parking area near the <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/deschutes/recarea/?recid=38410">McKay Crossing Campground</a> and follow the creekside trail up for about three miles until a trail sign points to a turnoff to a small wooden bridge that crosses Paulina Creek just above <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Island+Falls/@43.7140009,-121.3315464,14z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x54b884dcefb8774d:0xf9add24e94a059b!8m2!3d43.7135861!4d-121.3341749!16s%2Fg%2F11bv2l5h_l">Island Falls</a>. This trail passes several waterfalls (several of which are frozen or nearly frozen during the winter months). In the springtime, as the ice begins to melt, dozens of mini "waterfalls" appear, and the large waterfalls take on new shape. We take the trail to the bridge, then back track along the creek to a natural view point at the top of Island Falls where we stop for lunch. After we have eaten and rested, we head back down the trail with the river on our left. I particularly like that this trail starts uphill and ends going downhill. The hike back to our parking spot is always easier than the hike up, and there are a few sneak-peaks of mountains on the way back down to add to the waterfall views! When we did this hike on 2/26/23, we walked the path in our snow boots. During other winter visits we have used snow shoes or slip-on traction cleats. During the summer months we've hiked in sneakers or even water sandals. (Last visited 2/26/23)</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-oOVbD5RXQe3y1rJj5gY2jJ-THar0n7vLph9MH88FjG5w-kxiCIayMnF4dz157icAaxzcl8I_zrLVys44cveLuTkY6wV1lN2p9nA40nQLV4lViA8bNwatqY-iwTwF17IjkbAb6FmdluFIYzQBb_jhxQANl4tn-dGLmN9LjtQKTt6-DS6YjaR8TDPhQ/s1280/View%20from%20the%20bridge%20over%20frozen%20and%20snow%20covered%20Paulina%20Creek%20Looking%20The%20Direction%20of%20Island%20Falls%20.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-oOVbD5RXQe3y1rJj5gY2jJ-THar0n7vLph9MH88FjG5w-kxiCIayMnF4dz157icAaxzcl8I_zrLVys44cveLuTkY6wV1lN2p9nA40nQLV4lViA8bNwatqY-iwTwF17IjkbAb6FmdluFIYzQBb_jhxQANl4tn-dGLmN9LjtQKTt6-DS6YjaR8TDPhQ/w300-h400/View%20from%20the%20bridge%20over%20frozen%20and%20snow%20covered%20Paulina%20Creek%20Looking%20The%20Direction%20of%20Island%20Falls%20.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the bridge over frozen and snow-covered Paulina Creek looking the direction of Island Falls</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I look forward to returning to each of these beautiful places again and agin. </p><p>Stay tuned for additional favorites in future updates to this post!</p><p>(And for more of Dawn's thoughts on The Writing Life, <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/04/the-writing-life-summary-post.html">click here</a>.)</p><p>Last updated March 7, 2023</p><p><br /></p>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-89859799043045633352023-02-08T08:30:00.008-08:002023-02-08T08:30:00.213-08:00Birth Stories for Books: MABEL'S TOPSY-TURVY HOMES, by Candy Wellins<p>Dear Readers. Kids whose parents live in different homes experience unique challenges. Today's <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a> interview is with author <a href="https://candywellins.com/about/">Candy Wellins</a>, whose latest picture book, <a href="https://www.beamingbooks.com/store/product/9781506482866/Mabels-Topsy-Turvy-Homes">MABEL’S TOPSY-TURVY HOMES</a> (illustrated by <a href="https://jessroseart.com/about">Jess Rose</a>, <a href="https://www.beamingbooks.com/">Beaming Books</a>, October 2022) tackles this topic in a very kid-friendly way. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXJLRaLgx-yEPI3R4aoWxqTl85clOBl6Q5Xj5T48quaQr2GrsxmpwKxOKJZz6qSnhfTtLitLgoiGVkvwrwffAX7KinhX3tTZTBZSHgJKrDnr_U4dNotkqopxhoFjretnFWuaFEMniCcSXQRkdv2XK4sou9dJ0WfmWeZ_riVmqk8zJQT-zUjTLbDBJzfw/s1054/Mabelcover.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1054" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXJLRaLgx-yEPI3R4aoWxqTl85clOBl6Q5Xj5T48quaQr2GrsxmpwKxOKJZz6qSnhfTtLitLgoiGVkvwrwffAX7KinhX3tTZTBZSHgJKrDnr_U4dNotkqopxhoFjretnFWuaFEMniCcSXQRkdv2XK4sou9dJ0WfmWeZ_riVmqk8zJQT-zUjTLbDBJzfw/w341-h400/Mabelcover.jpg" width="341" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">by <a href="https://candywellins.com/about/">Candy Wellins</a> and <a href="https://jessroseart.com/about">Jess Rose</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><b>Dawn Prochovnic: Welcome to the blog, Candy. I’m looking forward to learning more about the path to publication for your latest book, <a href="https://www.beamingbooks.com/store/product/9781506482866/Mabels-Topsy-Turvy-Homes">MABEL’S TOPSY-TURVY HOMES</a>. </b> </p><p><b>Candy Wellins</b>: Thank you for having me! </p><p><b>DP: In <a href="https://candywellins.com/news/">other interviews</a> you’ve shared the inspiration for your earlier books. I’d love to hear the inspiration that sparked the idea for this latest book, as well as the process and timeframe between your initial idea for this book and the story that was formulated fully enough to submit to an editor.</b></p><p><b>CW</b>: My parents divorced when I was very young, and I grew up in two homes so the idea came to me very early! I don’t remember what exactly sparked Mabel’s specific story, but I do recall starting with the line, “This is Mabel’s house…and this is also Mabel’s house.” It was fun coming up with contrasting experiences at her two different houses—something I was very familiar with. </p><p>I started writing the story in 2016. It’s gone through many revisions, and we sold it to <a href="https://www.beamingbooks.com/store/author/8271/Candy-Wellins">Beaming Books</a> in early 2021. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFVR2kZeTwAYQ2ZkNotoK_XgYlOtxTWLsAAR0W_JJte4kPRlS0DoR4WoH98UdKfJ2hf4L9fxI9jaZ77wLetrT4FR65cwvCul7BwrVGaF97eEgL-JXVi1S6uLdkFYcw1dbQYPRoIPs4oJ-u-FJx7r73TwCSxgi4N-G7Zw3EAwvjoqNcXkfhkLWW8k70Og/s900/mabelinterior.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="900" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFVR2kZeTwAYQ2ZkNotoK_XgYlOtxTWLsAAR0W_JJte4kPRlS0DoR4WoH98UdKfJ2hf4L9fxI9jaZ77wLetrT4FR65cwvCul7BwrVGaF97eEgL-JXVi1S6uLdkFYcw1dbQYPRoIPs4oJ-u-FJx7r73TwCSxgi4N-G7Zw3EAwvjoqNcXkfhkLWW8k70Og/w400-h235/mabelinterior.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interior Image of MABEL'S TOPSY-TURVY HOMES<br />by <a href="https://candywellins.com/about/">Candy Wellins</a> and <a href="https://jessroseart.com/about">Jess Rose</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>DP: “This is Mabel’s house…and this is also Mabel’s house” is a great opening line. It immediately drew me into the story and into Mabel's home life. </b></p><p><b>When you compare one of your earliest drafts of this story to the version in the published book, what stands out for you in terms of what is most different? Likewise, is there anything in particular that stands out that was included in your earliest drafts and survived the revision process?</b></p><p><b>CW</b>: One of the biggest changes revisions brought was the addition of Izzy, Mabel’s class pet. Previous versions of the story just had Mabel comparing two different days at her two different houses. My wise critique partners noted that I needed more conflict. I played around with a few different scenarios, but nothing was working. At the time my son was in kindergarten and had a class pet (a stuffed animal thankfully) that spent weekends with different students. The variety of fun weekends inspired me to add Izzy to the story. </p><p><b>DP: That's such a great example of how critique partners can help us see opportunities for improving our stories. </b></p><p><b>Reflecting on the journey from idea to published book, is there any one moment along the way that you credit with opening the door for this particular story to find its way to publication? </b></p><p><b>CW</b>: I don’t know if there was one particular moment, but I’d say that anytime you write honestly about authentic experiences it resonates with readers and that often leads to publication. </p><p><b>DP: When you compare your path to publication for MABEL’S TOPSY-TURVY HOMES to your experience with your earlier books (<a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/saturdays-are-for-stella-candy-wellins/12039070?ean=9781624149214">SATURDAYS ARE FOR STELLA</a> and <a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-stars-beckoned-edward-white-s-amazing-walk-in-space-candy-wellins/15004787?ean=9780593118047">THE STARS BECKONED</a>), what are some of the key similarities and differences in terms of the publication journeys for each and/or the similarities and differences between the three different editors/publishers that you’ve worked with?</b></p><p><b>CW</b>: Book publishing is a bit like parenthood. Every book/child is a totally different experience, but so far everything has been positive for me. There was a time when I would have been worried about publishing with a smaller house. I was worried that I wouldn’t get the same exposure as I might with a bigger name, but I’ve found that hasn’t been the case at all. Write something worthwhile and it will get its due notice. </p><p><b>DP: I really appreciate that perspective, Candy. That's been my experience as well. </b></p><p><b>One of my favorite parts of being an author is connecting with young readers at school, library, and bookstore visits, and I’m always looking for new pro tips. Given your experience as both a former teacher and a children’s book author, what professional advice or suggestions do you have for fellow author/presenters in terms of planning successful (in-person and/or remote) book events? </b></p><p><b>CW</b>: I create <a href="https://candywellins.com/activities/">educator guides</a> that go along with each of my books. I realize not every school can afford author visits and even when you visit a classroom, it’s never long enough to cover everything you’d like. Educator guides allow teachers to go more depth with your book (or topic) with lessons that fit their specific students. </p><p><b>DP: That's an excellent tip, Candy. I have educators' guides for each of my books as well, and I always encourage teachers, librarians, and parents to check out the book resources on author, illustrator, and publisher websites, because so many provide fantastic learning extensions for their books. </b></p><p><b>You are a member of the <a href="https://www.soaring20spb.com/">Soaring 20’s Debut Group</a>. Your group appears to still be quite active well beyond your initial debut cycle. How did you come to be a member of this group? and What advice to you have for others who want to create/be a part an effective book promotion group?</b> </p><p><b>CW</b>: When I first sold SATURDAYS ARE FOR STELLA, I reached out to <a href="https://cateberry.com/">Cate Berry</a> for advice and the first thing she told me to do was join a debut group. I was lucky to connect with the Soaring 20s. </p><p>I highly recommend a support group (they aren’t just for debut authors anymore). Not only is great for promotional support (read and reviews, social media shares, blog tours), but it’s great for every day support (advice, encouragement and big virtual hugs when you need them). </p><p>If you’re in a debut group, I’d say play to your strengths. Do you have a favorite social media platform? Can you manage a second account for the group? If technology isn’t your thing, maybe you can help set up blog or podcast visits. Less extroverted types might be able to manage member books and share them amongst members to read and review. </p><p><b>DP: This is really helpful info, Candy. Thank you so much. </b></p><p><b>If you could go back in time, what would you tell your pre-published self? Or, said another way, what do you know now, that you wished you would have known a bit earlier?</b></p><p><b>CW</b>: I always wanted to be an author, but I felt like it was a bit of an impossible dream. My only regret is that I didn’t pursue it earlier than I did. </p><p><b>DP: Is there something you wish someone would ask you about your path to publication for MABEL’S TOPSY-TURVY HOMES, that you haven’t had the opportunity to share yet? </b></p><p><b>CW</b>: No one has asked about the names of all the kids in Mabel’s class. My three kiddos are hidden in there as well as a few of their friends plus some random names that just felt right. </p><p><b>DP: Love it! </b></p><p><b>Do you have anything you’d like to tell us about what you’re currently working on?</b> </p><p><b>CW</b>: I just got back the first final art spread for my next book, A GEODUCK IS NOT A DUCK. It’s a picture book graphic novel mystery about the world’s largest species of burrowing clams. It’s going to be so much fun and I can’t wait to share it with the world in early 2024. </p><p><b>DP: What a great title and concept. I can't wait to read it!</b></p><p><b>Thanks so much for sharing your Birth Story for <a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/mabel-s-topsy-turvy-homes-candy-wellins/18114968?ean=9781506482866">MABEL’S TOPSY-TURVY HOMES</a> with us, Candy. </b></p><p><b>Readers, you've heard me say it before: The best way to thank an author whose insights have been helpful and/or inspiring to you is to support their work. Buy their books. Request them from your <a href="https://www.worldcat.org/search?q=candy+wellins">library</a>. Read and share them with others. Candy's books, including MABEL’S TOPSY-TURVY HOMES are available everywhere books are sold—but you know I'm partial to supporting your local, <a href="https://bookshop.org/search?keywords=candy+wellins">independent bookstore</a>. </b> </p><p>********** </p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin2XRtDc29GOY3nefvN-FiNpnyrR2bFH_EzQRBlvkMiHIi-xKddANn8VMODKfaDJ9J_XDSrKJpb_7GeMoSUWn8MFmzvxqBzYfTsXKu7pYYCsyy52lTStmdL94KawTmm5eZ2WGWMXRc1n16RS40Qwfc7mUgD0AfJR3--rTlLmqRtWQV-SBEpOnMRnApPw/s4588/Candy%20Wellins-9.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4588" data-original-width="3059" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin2XRtDc29GOY3nefvN-FiNpnyrR2bFH_EzQRBlvkMiHIi-xKddANn8VMODKfaDJ9J_XDSrKJpb_7GeMoSUWn8MFmzvxqBzYfTsXKu7pYYCsyy52lTStmdL94KawTmm5eZ2WGWMXRc1n16RS40Qwfc7mUgD0AfJR3--rTlLmqRtWQV-SBEpOnMRnApPw/w213-h320/Candy%20Wellins-9.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Credit: </td></tr></tbody></table>I am a lifelong writer and book lover. A former teacher, I have a BA in journalism and an M.Ed. in literacy education. I’m now a full-time mom to three wonderful children who keep me up-to-date and immersed in children’s literature. When I’m not reading, writing or mothering, I love running, traveling and naps! My debut picture book Saturdays Are for Stella (Illustrated by Charlie Eve Ryan, PAGE STREET KIDS) was named a Kirkus Best Picture Book of 2020. Publishers Weekly called my debut picture book biography The Stars Beckoned: Edward White’s Amazing Walk in Space (Illustrated by Courtney Dawson, PHILOMEL) “an introduction to a space pioneer that’s ideal for the youngest nonfiction readers.” My family and I make our home deep in the heart of Texas. <br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>**********</p><p><a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a> is an occasional feature of Dawn Babb Prochovnic's blog. Dawn is the author of multiple picture books including, <i>Lucy's Blooms</i>, <i>Where Does a Cowgirl Go Potty?</i>, <i>Where Does a Pirate Go Potty?</i>, and 16 books in the <i>Story Time With Signs & Rhymes</i> series. Dawn is a contributing author to the award-winning book, <i>Oregon Reads Aloud</i>, and a frequent presenter at schools, libraries, and educational conferences. Contact Dawn using the form at the left, or learn more at <a href="http://www.dawnprochovnic.com">www.dawnprochovnic.com</a>. </p>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-71728154160432417742023-02-01T15:07:00.009-08:002023-02-01T17:40:01.424-08:00The WRAD Part of the Writing Life, 2023 Edition<p>WRAD 2023 is officially a Wrap! </p><p><a href="https://www.litworld.org/worldreadaloudday">World Read Aloud Day</a> (WRAD) is a special literacy event that takes place around the globe on the first Wednesday in February each year. It's hosted by <a href="https://www.litworld.org/mission">LitWorld</a>, and originally founded by <a href="https://twitter.com/pamallyn">Pam Allyn</a>. For the past several years, author <a href="https://katemessner.com/zoom-with-an-author-or-illustrator-on-world-read-aloud-day-2023/">Kate Messner creates a space on her website </a>where teachers and librarians can connect with authors and illustrators who are willing to volunteer to offer free virtual book readings to children around the world. It's one of my favorite <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/p/past-events_25.html">book-related events</a> to participate in. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMZXXYS3RlFbprbC_BTMFwAr6DGsA0tz-cnTIokchvfKya3oLT33SlTDfNrE4AvJJXpWP5tOQLBUuuuU4J9Lsmf_8imVIV6FP4yjfNu2QPcAHi0OqefngMsjcyxMA_LPQe8G9j0_eR-Di3Tf_OSPdKsX4cVjy4hmILtfj4trvSVsrYq_kOTpamc6rUYQ/s1024/Dawn%20Babb%20Prochovnic%20WRAD%202023.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMZXXYS3RlFbprbC_BTMFwAr6DGsA0tz-cnTIokchvfKya3oLT33SlTDfNrE4AvJJXpWP5tOQLBUuuuU4J9Lsmf_8imVIV6FP4yjfNu2QPcAHi0OqefngMsjcyxMA_LPQe8G9j0_eR-Di3Tf_OSPdKsX4cVjy4hmILtfj4trvSVsrYq_kOTpamc6rUYQ/w400-h300/Dawn%20Babb%20Prochovnic%20WRAD%202023.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /></div><p>For the past couple of years, I've used a <a href="https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0f45aca82ca0f4c61-world1#/">Sign-Up Genius</a> to help me coordinate my virtual visits. I also now have a <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdBcuJkfbTRbW9mkSQISCLPeTQJ3QUrQdzHaTaWplwynkw5pg/viewform?usp=sf_link">Google Form</a> for folks who want to be among the first to find out when the scheduling tool is available for next year. </p><p>This year I scheduled visits with ten schools, and successfully completed visits with eight schools. Even with excellent coordination, it's not unusual that one or more of the schools needs to cancel at the last minute due to weather-related school closures or some other scheduling or technical snafu. Also, some schools that hope to meet with me are unable to match their scheduling needs with my available times, and/or my schedule is full by the time they reach out, or there are members of the learning community who were absent on World Read Aloud Day. </p><p>For these schools (and now for you!) I compile some of my best resources as a stand-in for a real-time virtual author visit. These resources are of course not quite the same as real-time virtual visit, (or a <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/p/school-visits.html">full-length, personalized author visit)</a>, but they do allow young readers to connect with an author in some fashion, in honor of World Read Aloud Day. Please feel welcome to explore and share these resources with your learning community: </p><p>***</p><p>Here is a link to a <a href="https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1CFsKEaSBNzN7ZQftGYn8HA7g8zBgs0G-ceDE3XysVpE/edit?usp=sharing">“Hello” slide deck</a> that I shared with the schools/classrooms that I visited.</p><p>It’s not the same as a real virtual visit, but it will allow your students to connect with me for World Read Aloud Day in some fashion. (The “speaker notes” below each slide provide my general talking points and related resource links.) </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXpZfPPAmKboKMm7t9OKrCnp3MIPjWNQvk9brF1w7Q6nWeChlzm2mT_kH_b-arfNBWqJHFaqpfcw5XRJZV7zi8Wj9CGli4UAY5GA-RIgu9BOWZhHX5Di5CgtW0xgNTvpMO48SE-WBw81mlZlWZC9p7ojzCcoZ28-aQQDt3ZH8tIkyR1Ab6tfmXPG86Gw/s720/Dawn%20Prochovnic%20WRAD%202023%20Hello.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXpZfPPAmKboKMm7t9OKrCnp3MIPjWNQvk9brF1w7Q6nWeChlzm2mT_kH_b-arfNBWqJHFaqpfcw5XRJZV7zi8Wj9CGli4UAY5GA-RIgu9BOWZhHX5Di5CgtW0xgNTvpMO48SE-WBw81mlZlWZC9p7ojzCcoZ28-aQQDt3ZH8tIkyR1Ab6tfmXPG86Gw/w400-h300/Dawn%20Prochovnic%20WRAD%202023%20Hello.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></div><br /></div><br />Speaking of resources, here is the <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/p/resources.html">link to the plethora of Resources tab on my website</a>.<p></p><p>From this landing page, you can access things like: </p><p>1. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/dprochovnic/featured">My YouTube channel</a> with <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dprochovnic/featured">full readings of several of my books</a> including <i><a href="https://youtu.be/ZHKMqFfniAI">Lucy’s Blooms</a></i>, <i><a href="https://youtu.be/vE4zFxjoo2Y">Where Does a Cowgirl Go Potty?</a></i> and <i><a href="https://youtu.be/0M4Wr72RoVo">First Day Jitters</a></i> from the collection of stories in <a href="https://www.westmarginpress.com/book-details/9781513263151/oregon-reads-aloud/"><i>Oregon Reads Aloud</i>.</a> This is where you will also find animated book trailers and companion songs for my three most recent books, as well as some <a href="https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLs4Np20HjD4EmMybL3kDDGyJ8xeRdtCu9">ASL interpreted readings</a> for <i>Lucy’s Blooms</i> and the <a href="https://youtu.be/csoF_xhUTuI">companion song</a>. </p><p>2. Curriculum-Aligned Educators’ Guides for <i><a href="https://dhjhkxawhe8q4.cloudfront.net/west-margin-books-wp/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/29173500/LucysBlooms_BookGuide_FINAL.pdf">Lucy’s Blooms</a></i>, <i><a href="https://dhjhkxawhe8q4.cloudfront.net/west-margin-books-wp/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/25210411/book-guide-Where-Does-a-Cowgirl-go-Potty.pdf ">Where Does a Cowgirl Go Potty?</a></i>, and <i><a href="https://dhjhkxawhe8q4.cloudfront.net/west-margin-books-wp/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/25210414/book-guide-Where-Does-a-Pirate-go-Potty.pdf">Where Does a Pirate Go Potty?</a></i> (All three of the guides include STEM tie-ins, and for my Pirate and Cowgirl books, these guides include Readers' Theatre scripts.)</p><p>3. Lesson Plans for <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2013/04/start-to-finish-story-time-summary-post.html ">Sign Language Story Times</a>, <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2019/04/start-to-finish-story-time-expanded.html">themed enrichment activities</a>, and <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2019/09/talk-like-pirate-day-story-time-lesson.html">fun extras</a> such as Pirate and Cowgirl Name Generators. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNg7Owu68L0IE5hjZZCtfGMF4W1sMLBSbi3aClwolkQ9s_-oJkM-QEjY5kcrozN5eD0Z7AJ_8KSuzbHFVFTmS0ii4NV1I6nNNOtK4gEZeCQ82Tb4D9pyf9hESAF-yV2-EdliS5qRBWkUL3OpG9Bl5cRrYzBnaf8kRnKNVLSgiFC-6NYFwdLI8iHv2qhQ=s1650" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1650" data-original-width="1275" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNg7Owu68L0IE5hjZZCtfGMF4W1sMLBSbi3aClwolkQ9s_-oJkM-QEjY5kcrozN5eD0Z7AJ_8KSuzbHFVFTmS0ii4NV1I6nNNOtK4gEZeCQ82Tb4D9pyf9hESAF-yV2-EdliS5qRBWkUL3OpG9Bl5cRrYzBnaf8kRnKNVLSgiFC-6NYFwdLI8iHv2qhQ=w309-h400" width="309" /></a></div><p>I also have a couple of different “virtual-virtual,” or “self-guided” author visits via Google Slides that you/your students can peruse (the “speaker notes” below each slide provides the talking points I would typically deliver during a school visit): </p><p><b>Write On! Why Writing is (Possibly) the Most Important Thing You’ll Ever Do</b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgfjeGUl1wd71b4CM83zC73N_7RZUhZzq9OnEw9CUZDYvfQh31VlKsk0EM-5J-DXydzv3Sm2F-BQshbW4e6lhVs7v7-E2zLSOAXNov_gkkjujO4OIuh5O87tzyJCLSfbUA0l7GqWVaV7iBdPq4QaONGra2WWO8p8lhDcGuqtCf3E7A4DYilTOdncbiHqQ=s960" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgfjeGUl1wd71b4CM83zC73N_7RZUhZzq9OnEw9CUZDYvfQh31VlKsk0EM-5J-DXydzv3Sm2F-BQshbW4e6lhVs7v7-E2zLSOAXNov_gkkjujO4OIuh5O87tzyJCLSfbUA0l7GqWVaV7iBdPq4QaONGra2WWO8p8lhDcGuqtCf3E7A4DYilTOdncbiHqQ=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>From "Ahoy, Matey! to “Howdy, Pardner!” How to Create Vivid Characters by Giving Each a Unique Voice</b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg88GEQXvoiSvRvDWczcc1_Fvd_6W6ByjRXnrJK6OTphKP8LHVwr-wMRDb2BzuCfBI_oo_rwVY9I2sUACZIEvIfueYIn5MBz5sEz-Efh-3eZ_JEMt5E47GC64gGm5vxJ-5D9e8EVP9nCS5EaoIvYoFsRBBk0Dxz-PDQKX4l6rFQKd6tO_UcKJhQDsAtwg=s960" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg88GEQXvoiSvRvDWczcc1_Fvd_6W6ByjRXnrJK6OTphKP8LHVwr-wMRDb2BzuCfBI_oo_rwVY9I2sUACZIEvIfueYIn5MBz5sEz-Efh-3eZ_JEMt5E47GC64gGm5vxJ-5D9e8EVP9nCS5EaoIvYoFsRBBk0Dxz-PDQKX4l6rFQKd6tO_UcKJhQDsAtwg=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><p>Please reach out to me directly and I would be more than happy to provide links to these virtual visits. </p><p>Once a school or classroom has interacted with one of my books, (via the video story times, and/or virtual workshops on Google Slides on your own), I would be more than happy to respond to written questions from students. How this typically works is that the librarian or classroom teacher assigns a “post visit” writing lesson for the students where they each ask me a question (about my books, or my writing process, or my “office assistant, Pickle, etc.), and then you would deliver the full set of questions to me via postal mail or email (in one batched email from you vs. individual emails from students). After I receive the questions, I will reply to the students with a compilation response that I will deliver to you. Here is a <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/search?q=%22Pickle+the+cat%22">link to some examples</a> of my responses from my interactions with other schools. </p><p>I hope these options are helpful resources. Please feel welcome and encouraged to share them with your families and your colleagues, and please let me know if I can be a resource to you in any other way.</p><p>Warm wishes,</p><p>Dawn</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRHuL08vxLr5zY5RvnZwVtdG9ccZz6mXD5fbfGjKD8bOPRXUYvsIHiqIEBLEgaBJh42mSR17ZbQH2YUpQXJJ9M-r-3HPO7RTWVRCzugIoXADXsgBB-txn321jxCUMnMcZxxjYpo5gaFb_DrBgQ6W2IOrZhD6ZVmgaIDa6oTiJHdNh1tESpq4-j2qPgCw/s2130/Screen%20Shoot%20of%20Zoom%20Meeting%20zm20230201-1503-2.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1446" data-original-width="2130" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRHuL08vxLr5zY5RvnZwVtdG9ccZz6mXD5fbfGjKD8bOPRXUYvsIHiqIEBLEgaBJh42mSR17ZbQH2YUpQXJJ9M-r-3HPO7RTWVRCzugIoXADXsgBB-txn321jxCUMnMcZxxjYpo5gaFb_DrBgQ6W2IOrZhD6ZVmgaIDa6oTiJHdNh1tESpq4-j2qPgCw/w400-h271/Screen%20Shoot%20of%20Zoom%20Meeting%20zm20230201-1503-2.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /></div><p>Reach out via email, <a href="https://twitter.com/DawnProchovnic">Twitter</a>, or through my contact form (at the left of this post on the desktop version), if you'd like to schedule a time for me to meet with your students in the future! </p>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-45586720736165032672023-01-24T02:02:00.003-08:002023-01-24T07:16:38.679-08:00The "Staying Grounded" Part of the Writing Life<p>The past few weeks have been a doozy. </p><p>On Christmas Eve, my mother-in-law experienced an unexpected health issue that resulted in several days of hospitalization. A couple of days after Christmas, there was a huge windstorm in our area, and a large tree fell on a home we own. (Gratefully, no one was hurt, but the event created the need for lots of extra work communicating with an overwhelmed insurance company and coordinating with multiple contractors.) </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhUP-PLQqLJWOpq1gl9fef4U7KOR4IzGHcFpZcb-c6d1oCDK4bWBA4QAekwV8MptraO5UBR7gf-JLXW6q9z0qm__vgVrOZ3UrdbHdr5rTGfCZUDtZvbBxPX01jo_kKScmOyGA67EXppQW6LkXkvk2EMwjKXlwOpcxWGE71PZqAZhBh_iwhmLWQLoYui4g" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhUP-PLQqLJWOpq1gl9fef4U7KOR4IzGHcFpZcb-c6d1oCDK4bWBA4QAekwV8MptraO5UBR7gf-JLXW6q9z0qm__vgVrOZ3UrdbHdr5rTGfCZUDtZvbBxPX01jo_kKScmOyGA67EXppQW6LkXkvk2EMwjKXlwOpcxWGE71PZqAZhBh_iwhmLWQLoYui4g=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p>That same day, we lost power for a three-day stretch. Right after the power came back on, my mother-in-law came to stay with us to recuperate for about a week; her care needs necessitated multiple wake-up calls in the middle of the night. The day after she went home, my own mother experienced a health issue requiring emergency surgery. She is still in the hospital due to various complications that have delayed her recovery. I have spent the better part of the past week at the hospital, providing emotional support and engaging with healthcare providers as she heals and recovers. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEioJNnduxwsuIXa1p2LfSGxQTkXXrL_Mlw4bb8Tkpezo1GhaSsgjDCnqvk3UB-uRpnJMoGidIo0t_tyIltuG6fvAMrfliEUVlG7KF3EkS1E2LECdyza6WuM0wunqJX1MynOY1sql_iI70furq64Jz-RlBDnRqQ1kbAhai2JK9bgZ2KZg6Ws4wb8_beIOA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEioJNnduxwsuIXa1p2LfSGxQTkXXrL_Mlw4bb8Tkpezo1GhaSsgjDCnqvk3UB-uRpnJMoGidIo0t_tyIltuG6fvAMrfliEUVlG7KF3EkS1E2LECdyza6WuM0wunqJX1MynOY1sql_iI70furq64Jz-RlBDnRqQ1kbAhai2JK9bgZ2KZg6Ws4wb8_beIOA=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><br />Add to this my husband hurting his back and being out of commission for several days; helping our daughter prepare for a move from our family home into her first post-college apartment; and helping our son as he returns to college after winter break and begins planning for a study abroad experience that starts next term, and suffice it to say, my plate has been FULL! <div><p></p><p>Meanwhile, the month of January, a month that's typically very productive for me in terms of creativity, marches on. </p><p>Although I've had very limited time (or head space) for creative writing this past few weeks, the truth of the matter is that writing (and writing-related practices) helps me stay grounded during times of stress and uncertainty. It's during times like this that I lean into the muscle memory of the writing routines I've developed over the years to keep my creative goals moving forward. </p><p>Some of my creative writing accomplishments for the past few weeks include:</p><p>-Participating in <a href="https://taralazar.com/storystorm/">StoryStorm</a> to generate new story ideas.</p><p>-Tinkering around with two of the new story ideas that I've come up with during StoryStorm.</p><p>-Revising a story in response to an upcoming call for submissions to a publisher that I'd like to work with.</p><p>-Preparing a submission packet for a publisher that has an open submission window this month.</p><p>-Completing weekly manuscript critiques for my critique partner. </p><p>-Sharing one manuscript for critique with my critique partner.</p><p>-Writing a heartfelt letter to a family member. </p><p>-Coordinating <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2022/02/the-wrad-part-of-writing-life.html">author visits for World Read Aloud Day 2023</a>, coming up on February 1st. </p><p>-Exchanging weekly creative writing goals and weekly accomplishment reports with my critique partner. (I'm a week behind on this, but I'm determined to get caught up!)</p><p>-Preparing a <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/12/year-end-greetings-and-holiday-letters.html">year-end blog post</a>, hosting a guest author on my <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a> blog series, and writing this blog post.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgCM1JFqhFs1L_Fj-DS0uVw8UPiufhn4kNwKuTAymTmH70MQI9ZjCQMNQPgR2Wt8VJ_jHsc3OxukcPUmCAFyebdeIOTfb8hu8vNH2AlcxnxfqF8J8pHzoYzAvhEI4zLbvrObjW8OjjnO3JKtf2vcJqoyDAbQHPj33eS3V45pWearhEYI1J9-bFGLkOLbg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1833" data-original-width="1817" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgCM1JFqhFs1L_Fj-DS0uVw8UPiufhn4kNwKuTAymTmH70MQI9ZjCQMNQPgR2Wt8VJ_jHsc3OxukcPUmCAFyebdeIOTfb8hu8vNH2AlcxnxfqF8J8pHzoYzAvhEI4zLbvrObjW8OjjnO3JKtf2vcJqoyDAbQHPj33eS3V45pWearhEYI1J9-bFGLkOLbg" width="238" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Creative writing goals that I've yet to accomplish this month, that are high on my list of priorities, include: </p><p>-Writing a heartfelt letter to another family member.</p><p>-Polishing and submitting stories for the two calls for submissions mentioned above.</p><p>-Preparing submission packets for a new round of agent queries (<b>Note to Universe</b>: I'd like for 2023 to be the year that I find a literary agent who loves my work as much as I do, and wants to be my career partner.)</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjzQut82Qe1YZCtYGYBJ9lmwxO4qUWZTXG1GI-mkNtjsaHeC2fAduI_hJwNysGa9lNFKjcWYm3l9CDilsomEHGfSUp6q5tKGd2MjIe-0BobosCz_2-UcVzEyJY3M2cF6fP_X3T3roXMGHnyLOi5FKab-gkNxClfYkgssmjS9QGMx3_3ofAKCxYlI6_SLw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="282" data-original-width="425" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjzQut82Qe1YZCtYGYBJ9lmwxO4qUWZTXG1GI-mkNtjsaHeC2fAduI_hJwNysGa9lNFKjcWYm3l9CDilsomEHGfSUp6q5tKGd2MjIe-0BobosCz_2-UcVzEyJY3M2cF6fP_X3T3roXMGHnyLOi5FKab-gkNxClfYkgssmjS9QGMx3_3ofAKCxYlI6_SLw" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />Many years ago, I wrote this succinct mission statement related to my writing work: <div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>I write to teach, empower, process, and persuade. </i></p><p><br /></p><p>When I wrote this mission statement, the word <i>empower</i> was meant to convey that I wanted to write books that empower my readers. As I reflect on this mission statement today, I realize that adhering to my writing practices and routines has helped empower <i>me</i> during this period of time filled with uncertainty and powerlessness. </p><p>My creative writing goals (those that have been accomplished, and those I've yet to accomplish), are helping me stay grounded during this challenging time. </p><p>What helps you stay grounded during challenging times? I'd love to hear from you in the comments below.</p><p><br /></p><p>[<a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/04/the-writing-life-summary-post.html">Click here</a> for more posts on the topic of The Writing Life. </p><p>If you find my blog helpful, please consider <a href="https://bookshop.org/search?keywords=prochovnic">ordering one of my books</a>. It supports me and my work.]</p><p></p></div></div>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-6399023795094560092023-01-11T08:00:00.001-08:002023-01-11T08:00:00.197-08:00Birth Stories for Books: SUPER PIZZA & KID KALE, by Phaea Crede<p>Welcome to a new year, dear readers, and welcome to a new series of <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a> interviews and guest posts. Today's guest, author <a href="http://www.phaeacrede.com/">Phaea Crede</a>, last visited the blog to share her <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2021/05/birth-stories-for-books-jet-cat-is-not.html">path to publication</a> experience for her debut, <a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/jet-the-cat-is-not-a-cat-phaea-crede/15171562?ean=9781646861668"><i>Jet the CAT (Is Not a Cat)</i></a>. </p><p>In today's post, Phaea serves up another inspiring behind-the-scenes look, this time for her latest book, <a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/super-pizza-kid-kale-phaea-crede/18299751?ean=9780593403709">SUPER PIZZA & KID KALE</a> (illustrated by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/zachsmithdraws/">Zach Smith</a>, <a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/675618/super-pizza-and-kid-kale-by-phaea-crede-illustrated-by-zach-smith/9780593403709">Viking Books</a>, September 2022), a silly and heartwarming story that piles on the puns. </p><p>Take it away, Phaea! </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpT5i2qIpVkSUN0xrdDeEgtCiIj2Y2O0AruCMsgW1AZMQ1pqKT-wizgf4ZvRirHDVTzKyRaKsEWLZ6Ohcg7MavEPu3E4YJ53HW1N1sXwULro49YwC_IwODlX56TDGSViOk3KkC7qHSPOkqTommO4GHc8645C3MkTaiwz5lROJ0JZe3DWOk3E3ecopGUw/s3675/SuperPizzaKidKaleCover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3675" data-original-width="2925" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpT5i2qIpVkSUN0xrdDeEgtCiIj2Y2O0AruCMsgW1AZMQ1pqKT-wizgf4ZvRirHDVTzKyRaKsEWLZ6Ohcg7MavEPu3E4YJ53HW1N1sXwULro49YwC_IwODlX56TDGSViOk3KkC7qHSPOkqTommO4GHc8645C3MkTaiwz5lROJ0JZe3DWOk3E3ecopGUw/w319-h400/SuperPizzaKidKaleCover.jpg" width="319" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">by <a href="http://www.phaeacrede.com/">Phaea Crede</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/zachsmithdraws/">Zach Smith</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><div style="text-align: left;"><b>SUPER PIZZA & KID KALE</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">by <a href="http://www.phaeacrede.com/">Phaea Crede</a> </div><p>The origin of wood-fired warrior Super Pizza and their side kick, the lean, green roughage machine Kid Kale is as twisty and turn-y as a waterslide coated in olive oil. Here is a thyme line of how all the revisions, heartbreaks, and ultimate publication of <i>Super Pizza & Kid Kale</i> (<a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/675618/super-pizza-and-kid-kale-by-phaea-crede-illustrated-by-zach-smith/9780593403709">Viking Books</a>, 2022) went down.</p><p><b>June 2018</b></p><p>While playing a brainstorming game we learned at a recent library visit with author <a href="https://www.joshfunkbooks.com/">Josh Funk</a>, my then 3.5-year-old daughter invents a character: a piece of pizza that wants to be a super hero. WOW! I immediately wonder what it would be like to be a hero that everyone wants to eat. </p><p>With my kid’s permission, I start to work on a story about Super Pizza. </p><p><b>July 2018 </b></p><p>So far, the story is just food pun nicknames for Super Pizza. Some examples are:</p><div style="text-align: left;">The Savory of Bravery<br />The Anchovy Ace <br />The Loaded Legend<br />The Star Scrapper of the Sauce<br />The Muscled Mozzarella <br />The Crusty Contender <br />The Crust You Trust<br />The Lion Pie of Liberty<br />The Slice of Justice<br />The Garlic Guardian</div><p>(None of these made it into the final draft FYI.)</p><p><b>September 2018</b></p><p>Finally, I have a draft. Well, a 12th draft. After vetting the story with my critique group, I feel ready to try and DO something with the story.</p><p><b>October 2018</b></p><p><a href="https://newengland.scbwi.org/">NESCWBI</a> Agent/Editor Day, a lovely event that allows aspiring authors to get feedback from colleagues, agents, and editors. I bring two stories to read. At my second table with an editor, I share <i>Super Pizza & Kid Kale</i>. It goes okay! I send a follow up email to said editor.</p><p><b>November 2018</b></p><p>Said editor writes back! He says he likes the story and thinks it has potential, but feels it’s missing something. He recommends I add a side kick or a villain. If I do that, he says he’d like to read it again.</p><p>I revise immediately. Just kidding! I felt like the story conflict was PERFECT. A piece of pizza who wants to be a hero but can’t because kids keep eating it! Where would a side kick fit in? Nowhere. I move on to other projects, content to have written a brilliant story that no one understands.</p><p><b>May 2019</b> </p><p><a href="https://newengland.scbwi.org/">The New England SCBWI</a> Spring Conference. I love this conference. I always learn new skills and make new friends. I’m checking in when I see a familiar face – the said editor! I greet him and HE ASKS ME IF I’VE REVISED SUPER PIZZA YET! I'm taken aback that he not only remembered my book, he was still hoping to read a revision. I try to not throw up all over myself and I tell him I will get the revision to him soon.</p><p><b>June 2019</b></p><p>I revise. I decide to combine the idea of a side kick and a villain into one character. A food that is the complete opposite of pizza: kale! In the new story the conflict comes from Kid Kale’s jealousy of Super Pizza’s popularity. KK turns against the townsfolk and causes weed-like kale plants to destroy everything!</p><p><b>Late June, 2019</b></p><p>I resubmit the revision to said editor. I feel great. This is really going to happen!</p><p><b>July 2019</b></p><p>The revision is rejected. Beep boop. I cry some marinara tears, then stuff the manuscript into a virtual pizza box and shelf it.</p><p><b>May 2020</b></p><p>I’ve just sold my first book, <i><a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/jet-the-cat-is-not-a-cat-phaea-crede/15171562?ean=9781646861668">Jet the Cat (Is Not a Cat)</a></i> have an amazing agent, <a href="https://bookendsliterary.com/myauthors/moe-ferrara/">Moe Ferrara</a> and I’m out on sub with a new book, <i>Asparaghosts</i>, a story about a kid who is haunted by the ghosts of the veggies she rejects only to team up with them and rebel against the narrator. I feel great!</p><p><b>June 15 2020</b></p><p><i>Asapraghosts</i> collects mass rejections. But, one rejection catches my eye. An editor says that while she doesn’t connect with this story, she likes my writing, and that food-related books are a personal favorite of hers. </p><p>Hey! I have a food-related book! I send Moe a copy of <i>Super Pizza & Kid Kale</i>. She likes it, but has notes.</p><p><b>July 2020</b></p><p>I revise <i>Super Pizza & Kid Kale</i> again. Moe likes it! She sends it on to the editor and a few other houses for good measure.</p><p><b>August 2020</b></p><p>The editor passes. But the publishing house doesn’t! She says while she personally has a full list, she showed <i>Super Pizza & Kid Kale </i>to another editor who loved it. They wanted to make an offer, as long as I was open to some revisions.</p><p>I am now always open to revisions.</p><p><b>Still August, 2020</b></p><p>I have a call with my future editor <a href="https://twitter.com/neeks_kalia12">Aneeka Kalia</a>. She’s amazing. She has a few ideas for the book for me to consider including making the conflict between Kid Kale and Super Pizza less dramatic and centering the action at a school and not all over town.</p><p>She also has the idea of a huge double spread food fight. She is an awesome editor. I think all these revisions are great and will take the story to the next level. I say, heck yes.</p><p><b>Late August, 2020</b> </p><p>Viking Books officially acquires <i>Super Pizza & Kid Kale</i>! </p><p><b>December 2020</b></p><p>I deliver the final draft of <i>Super Pizza & Kid Kale</i> to Aneeka.</p><p><b>March 2021</b></p><p>Aneeka sends me the first sketches from our illustrator, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/zachsmithdraws/">Zach Smith</a>. They are amazing. This book is going to be amazing.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixI7LieLdSZ_aE_8dpViInOwgnHxoiqDf-8uCYh0Kq47voKhe9x7lf53r1SzUgl1jPbXbYhyLYDP-fO1rMdu4ECsQvgzbN2yby9g53nrcAQq-dv30Lq7c4dcpQIvQb0gxxACfjPKyPCFfJmaMe71sSOi7jXcBpg5ztQFbWa_LLf_J-FufEeItrBYRz7Q/s3600/Super%20Pizza%20Untitled_Artwork%203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3600" data-original-width="2850" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixI7LieLdSZ_aE_8dpViInOwgnHxoiqDf-8uCYh0Kq47voKhe9x7lf53r1SzUgl1jPbXbYhyLYDP-fO1rMdu4ECsQvgzbN2yby9g53nrcAQq-dv30Lq7c4dcpQIvQb0gxxACfjPKyPCFfJmaMe71sSOi7jXcBpg5ztQFbWa_LLf_J-FufEeItrBYRz7Q/w316-h400/Super%20Pizza%20Untitled_Artwork%203.jpg" width="316" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUQ_3XgeRoLQ23FJCcOX0A_eBthg_T330se4COI69X1CqGe_PHhH-1oRLVsn_-AlVS921YnhgqynxnHDGk7LTTv-PtAsf7riOTuPEVjD_PXa6xC6-S9dEKd4dYTVloOCQnRw7JJwXYVqO4iYvBrPSit39f4aSGtCz4DUkxy0-z4_12oSdwS53iLSuV_g/s2388/Super%20Pizza%20Untitled_Artwork%207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2388" data-original-width="1668" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUQ_3XgeRoLQ23FJCcOX0A_eBthg_T330se4COI69X1CqGe_PHhH-1oRLVsn_-AlVS921YnhgqynxnHDGk7LTTv-PtAsf7riOTuPEVjD_PXa6xC6-S9dEKd4dYTVloOCQnRw7JJwXYVqO4iYvBrPSit39f4aSGtCz4DUkxy0-z4_12oSdwS53iLSuV_g/w280-h400/Super%20Pizza%20Untitled_Artwork%207.jpg" width="280" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sketches by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/zachsmithdraws/">Zach Smith</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>Summer 2021</b></p><p>Aneeka, Zach, and I work on some small edits to better support the layout and art. The book is coming together!</p><p><b>September 2022</b></p><p><i><a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/super-pizza-kid-kale-phaea-crede/18299751?ean=9780593403709">Super Pizza & Kid Kale </a></i>is a real book! I’m so proud of this graphic-novel style story that celebrates friendship frustrations and food puns. As Super Pizza & Kid Kale like to say, “with great flavor comes great responsibility.” I could add “with great patience and the willingness to revise without ego comes publication.” </p><p>Grab a copy of <i><a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/super-pizza-kid-kale-phaea-crede/18299751?ean=9780593403709">Super Pizza & Kid Kale</a></i> anywhere books are sold and check out my <a href="http://phaeacrede.com">website</a> to learn how to get a personalized, signed copy from my local indie book store <a href="https://wordstreetbooks.indielite.org/">Word on the Street</a>.</p><p><b>Thank you for sharing a slice of your Birth Story for SUPER PIZZA & KID KALE, Phaea. You've shown us that persistence, flexibility, and a generous appetite for revision are key ingredients in the path to publication. </b></p><p><b>Friends, the best way to thank authors whose insights have been helpful and/or inspiring to you is to support their work. Buy their books for yourself and as gifts. Request them from <a href="https://www.worldcat.org/title/1292974970">your library</a>. Read and share them with others. <a href="http://www.phaeacrede.com/books.html">SUPER PIZZA & KID KALE</a> is available everywhere books are sold, including from your local, independent bookstore (which you can access online via <a href="http://Bookshop.org">Bookshop.org</a>).</b></p><p>********** </p><p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiToK8mEomi7_DShhf9zC_ha-X1CCRJ43AGRzHgO1rl5eGaVkpORvYTb7hYAwuSokPL0gKUGFmD1LPp4TZyyzdwTVOIyA9R1D9CKkOErRBjUkvgDFzxSfNrMJhdyWu-kc0QFnsMrAG_qUFp-rbQhIsJwNjZcQbzn1NZg823Ol6mDaK8jBr56PpVVUELXA/s4100/PhaeaCredeHeadshot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3274" data-original-width="4100" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiToK8mEomi7_DShhf9zC_ha-X1CCRJ43AGRzHgO1rl5eGaVkpORvYTb7hYAwuSokPL0gKUGFmD1LPp4TZyyzdwTVOIyA9R1D9CKkOErRBjUkvgDFzxSfNrMJhdyWu-kc0QFnsMrAG_qUFp-rbQhIsJwNjZcQbzn1NZg823Ol6mDaK8jBr56PpVVUELXA/s320/PhaeaCredeHeadshot.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Credit: </td></tr></tbody></table>Phaea Crede loves writing silly picture books for silly kids. Serious kids, too! She is the author of the picture books <i>Jet the Cat (is Not a Cat)</i> and <i>Super Pizza & Kid Kale</i>. Phaea lives outside of Boston with her husband, two kiddos, two kittens, one puppy, and a slightly stinky dog named Gus. <br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>**********</p><p><a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a> is an occasional feature of Dawn Babb Prochovnic's blog. Dawn is the author of multiple picture books including, <i>Lucy's Blooms</i>, <i>Where Does a Cowgirl Go Potty?</i>, <i>Where Does a Pirate Go Potty?</i>, and 16 books in the <i>Story Time With Signs & Rhymes</i> series. Dawn is a contributing author to the award-winning book, Oregon Reads Aloud, and a frequent presenter at schools, libraries, and educational conferences. Contact Dawn using the form at the left, or learn more at <a href="http://www.dawnprochovnic.com">www.dawnprochovnic.com</a>. </p>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-42463216522730283532022-12-31T10:43:00.000-08:002023-12-30T13:35:48.269-08:002022 Year-End Post and Holiday Greeting<p>We've once again safely arrived to that time of year when we reflect on the past, intentionally connect with others, and make plans for the future. As I've mentioned before, although it seems like fewer and fewer people send year-end greetings, I look forward to this annual tradition—both the receiving of cards, letters, and photos from friends and family and the preparation of my own annual update.</p><p><a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/12/year-end-greetings-and-holiday-letters.html">Each year</a>, I begin the process by paging through <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2019/01/2018-year-end-post-albeit-belated.html">my (old-style) calendar</a> and making note of the highlights and ordinary happenings in our household. Then I look for themes. I approach the task as an opportunity for creative expression, aiming to convey our family news in a way that is also reflective of the trends or events in our world and/or a major aspect of our personal lives. </p><p>Over the past year our family has had the opportunity to travel to a wide variety of amazing destinations, so a holiday greeting modeled after a reservation listing for a travel booking site we regularly use seemed to fit the bill: </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3_OCPD09mwaB9JOHu66JjB1cRkA4KMExg__R6iWsLJ1y3I0OtrznD_alSkaM8R7jHPXeifNEsT9iWQ_Z1jiLpD_urHMSCewnIVCpKzgShOLQWG8nk6JDkN4GwdxPSEvJLoheWRrSBmBMU6Al_HzSXHlRINJxLFBcE04PqOrnKF4QsU_dsuGJgp_NTtQ/s1152/Holiday%20Card%202022%20Final%20to%20Print%20JPeg%20for%20Blog.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="792" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3_OCPD09mwaB9JOHu66JjB1cRkA4KMExg__R6iWsLJ1y3I0OtrznD_alSkaM8R7jHPXeifNEsT9iWQ_Z1jiLpD_urHMSCewnIVCpKzgShOLQWG8nk6JDkN4GwdxPSEvJLoheWRrSBmBMU6Al_HzSXHlRINJxLFBcE04PqOrnKF4QsU_dsuGJgp_NTtQ/w440-h640/Holiday%20Card%202022%20Final%20to%20Print%20JPeg%20for%20Blog.jpg" width="440" /></a></div><p><a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2014/09/how-my-trip-to-spain-will-influence-my.html">Travel</a> (and <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2013/09/how-hosting-exchange-student-continues.html">hosting travelers</a>) has been a longstanding and important companion to my creative journey. Most of my best story ideas and story solutions come to me when I am "in motion," and the sensory experiences of being in new spaces and places opens me up to new ideas. </p><p>Although <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/08/the-song-writing-part-of-writing-life.html">I love to dream about and plan new trips</a>, I often get stressed out and even resistant to the idea of leaving home when I'm in the <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2015/06/travel-tips-from-dawn.html">preparation/coordination and packing stages of travel</a>. But once I arrive to my destination and begin seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting, and touching new and different things, I'm "all in." </p><p>Upon reflection, I realize that's very similar to <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/04/the-writing-life-summary-post.html">my writing journey</a>. I love to dream up new story ideas and noodle on story problems, but once I sit down to my desk to do the work of writing, it's not unusual for me to freeze up and resist actually putting words on the page. But once I start physically writing or typing, something magical happens, and I'm transported to a headspace that allows me to create something new. </p><p>This year's annual greeting captures some of the journeys my family has experienced together and individually over the past year. I look forward to new adventures in the year to come -- on the map and on the page. I wish you and yours a safe journey into a new year filled with experiences that bring Peace, Love, Joy, and Creativity into your life and into our world. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrC4topB_yajcwnuy4zyVLqADbcwqgccbd4DEdAUQfNUeAcm7PUdyE0bBT4H_9yW0YuxWVzd9dgNefRFmfXMc_fqPJAM-xv8CfCUoKjKbIBBsWIw7Ay5K1BEYfSA6C853cJFsWBezuo_PgRcn-sxP6tFInRvKjGGFX3YMqatrTLSd_V-XiZaATWzbURQ/s2184/Screen%20Shot%202022-12-31%20at%209.58.46%20AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1086" data-original-width="2184" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrC4topB_yajcwnuy4zyVLqADbcwqgccbd4DEdAUQfNUeAcm7PUdyE0bBT4H_9yW0YuxWVzd9dgNefRFmfXMc_fqPJAM-xv8CfCUoKjKbIBBsWIw7Ay5K1BEYfSA6C853cJFsWBezuo_PgRcn-sxP6tFInRvKjGGFX3YMqatrTLSd_V-XiZaATWzbURQ/w400-h199/Screen%20Shot%202022-12-31%20at%209.58.46%20AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-11106873591818526592022-11-16T08:00:00.001-08:002022-11-16T08:00:00.215-08:00Birth Stories for Books: THE PROUDEST COLOR, by Sheila Modir, PhD and Jeff Kashou, LMFT<p>I have met many wonderful people as a result of my affiliation with <a href="https://www.familius.com/">Familius</a>, the publisher of my next scheduled book. Most recently, I had the honor of interviewing two especially caring and compassionate individuals: <a href="https://theproudestcolor.com/about">Sheila Modir, PhD and Jeff Kashou, LMFT</a>, co-authors of the meaningful and timely picture book, <a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-proudest-color-sheila-modir-and-jeffrey-kashou/15868513?ean=9781641705783">THE PROUDEST COLOR</a> (illustrated by <a href="https://monicamikai.com/">Monica Mikai</a>, published by <a href="https://www.familius.com/book/the-proudest-color/">Familius</a>, 2021). </p><p>Dear Readers, I hope you will give this book, and the story-behind-the-story, the time and attention it deserves. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzR2DmIIJfyu840RrCl99P81lStpXej1pEQpQhPNyF8AEVFc8dhto1g5djpe75APs-dK3GmeOidWGPYqtm7HmOYfdsZ1DboJd76foh9oYyPuG4D_-dxdh_zkt04lea-9vOZ807c_WRr_n0-gOWsn7mWk9gSIciR41MbYn2D_y9yS2MHG7pS7LoX7jQRA/s1484/The%20Proudest%20Color%20Cover.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1484" data-original-width="1192" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzR2DmIIJfyu840RrCl99P81lStpXej1pEQpQhPNyF8AEVFc8dhto1g5djpe75APs-dK3GmeOidWGPYqtm7HmOYfdsZ1DboJd76foh9oYyPuG4D_-dxdh_zkt04lea-9vOZ807c_WRr_n0-gOWsn7mWk9gSIciR41MbYn2D_y9yS2MHG7pS7LoX7jQRA/w321-h400/The%20Proudest%20Color%20Cover.png" width="321" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">by <a href="https://theproudestcolor.com/about">Sheila Modir PHD and Jeff Kashou LMFT</a><br />and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/monicamikai/">Monica Mikai</a></td></tr></tbody></table> </p><p><b>Dawn Prochovnic: Welcome to the blog, Dr. Sheila and Jeff. It’s my understanding that you were inspired to write <a href="https://www.familius.com/book/the-proudest-color/">THE PROUDEST COLOR</a> after the murder of George Floyd, and you’ve said, “<a href="https://theproudestcolor.com/about">Writing is our form of activism</a>.” That’s a very powerful statement. Can you share more details about how you came to decide that writing a book for children was one of the ways in which you wanted to actively engage in social justice work? </b></p><p><b>Dr. Sheila Modir and Jeff Kashou, LMFT</b>: As mental health professionals working primarily with children and adolescents, and their families, we wanted to write a book that was based in evidence-based research, while simultaneously promoting racial justice. Following a charged political climate, discussions around building walls and immigration, and in the midst of the Black Lives Matter movement, we had patients that were questioning their skin color and their cultural pride. When we searched our local bookstores and libraries for a book or resource to help initiate a conversation about race/racism, skin color, and racial/cultural pride, we couldn’t find one. I (Sheila) had conducted research on racial socialization (how parents/ caregivers communicate messages of race/racism to their child and the impact of it on their mental health) in graduate school, and referred back to the research studies to help inform this book. Our author proceeds are donated to nonprofit organizations like <a href="https://www.aclu.org/">ACLU</a> who will continue to promote racial justice. We feel like there is a lot more work to do in this field, but helping take one step forward by educating our youth and providing a resource for parents is our form of activism. </p><p><b>DP: I sincerely appreciate how you have harnessed your expertise to create something tangible and actionable in service of a better world. </b></p><p><b>George Floyd was murdered on May 25, 2020, and THE PROUDEST COLOR was published in September, 2021, which in my experience, is an incredibly short turn-around time in the children’s book world! Can you share with us the process and timeframe between your initial idea for the book and the manuscript that was formulated fully enough to submit to an editor/publisher? </b></p><p><b>SM and JK</b>: Yes, it was a fast turn-around time, and it’s truly because Familius recognized that a book like this needed to be out on shelves as soon as possible. The idea of the book was based on an essay I had written in graduate school about growing up as a brown girl in the Midwest and standing out in my school photos, in my group of friends, and essentially everywhere I went. This awareness of differences at a young age is powerful and shapes your self-esteem and your identity. We used this essay and the racial socialization research to help write <i>The Proudest Color</i>. To help us with the writing process, we asked questions like: How does a child react when they experience overt discrimination? How can parents help maneuver their child’s discrimination experience? What are ways they can build cultural pride? Up until now, no children’s book has openly discussed an experience of racism. We wanted to go there, because growing up we had experienced racism, and hearing our patient’s stories we knew they were experiencing it. We knew people are experiencing it, but now we needed to provide a way for parents/caregivers/ teachers to help them process it. We wrote the book in 5 days. At the time we were writing, there was a huge online movement where communities of color were sharing their experiences of discrimination, injustices, and inequities, and supporting one another, and we wanted to contribute to that. We searched for small publishing companies that focused on books for families and also had a history of publishing mental health books. Within a week of sending our manuscript to various publishers, we heard back from Familius. They understood the importance of the book and wanted it out as soon as possible. Within a year of submitting the book to them, it was published on shelves!</p><p><b>DP: That is a such a powerful and inspiring backstory. I'm so glad you found a home for this book with <a href="https://www.familius.com/book/the-proudest-color/">Familius</a>, and that they were nimble enough to bring it to the marketplace quickly. </b></p><p><b>When you compare one of your earliest drafts of this story to the version in the published book, what stands out for you in terms of what is most different? Likewise, is there anything in particular that stands out that was included in your earliest drafts and survived the revision process?</b></p><p><b>SM and JK: </b><i>The Proudest Color</i> not only talks about discrimination, but it also introduces readers to emotion identification. Surprisingly, finding colors and naming the colors was something that went through a few revisions. Jeff was great at finding fun and creative names for the colors like razzle dazzle pink! We wanted this book to truly embody mental health and resilience so each of the revisions moved us toward that. We also asked friends and colleagues in the mental health field to review it and provide us with feedback. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMjLkZUXyDnmAC-T75cGlwmbFZfVMwkCX1SMnm4s_30jWL1XDLtWc-IPn4fqYePN8RQasbts1YjKIUqO4oSvWJTHd_J9-aUNR0n6rMHAEhsA642Rn8nZLdbGdVNzjO5gLCQmoew90X5K31TPuNIkoWfBrvYtRdHTkDZXZzu6o1JX5nOcQ3a4x_U8WYGA/s2054/Emotions%20The%20Proudest%20Color%20Screen%20Shot%202021-04-25%20at%206.32.51%20PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1296" data-original-width="2054" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMjLkZUXyDnmAC-T75cGlwmbFZfVMwkCX1SMnm4s_30jWL1XDLtWc-IPn4fqYePN8RQasbts1YjKIUqO4oSvWJTHd_J9-aUNR0n6rMHAEhsA642Rn8nZLdbGdVNzjO5gLCQmoew90X5K31TPuNIkoWfBrvYtRdHTkDZXZzu6o1JX5nOcQ3a4x_U8WYGA/w400-h253/Emotions%20The%20Proudest%20Color%20Screen%20Shot%202021-04-25%20at%206.32.51%20PM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interior Image: <a href="https://www.familius.com/book/the-proudest-color/">THE PROUDEST COLOR</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><b>DP: I love the layers of learning in this book, such as the incorporation of colors and emotion identification. (The topic of resilience is dear to me; it's what rooted me to my most recent book, <a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/lucy-s-blooms-dawn-babb-prochovnic/15432874?ean=9781513267197">LUCY'S BLOOMS</a>, a story that took many years and many revisions to write, and many rejections before finding its way to publication.) </b></p><p><b>I'd like to hear a little more about your writing process. I would anticipate that co-authoring a book might create some unique opportunities—and also some unique challenges. Could you share some insights into your collaborative process? What elements of the collaborative process might you strive to repeat (and/or avoid) when working together on future book projects? </b></p><p><b>SM and JK: </b>We are married so it wasn’t too hard to write together since this was during the pandemic and we were both working from home. I wrote in the early mornings, and Jeff wrote in the evenings, and we would email each other the draft we had worked on. We both have our own writing styles and ideas so bringing them together was a fun process and we are looking forward to continuing this collaboration!</p><p><b>DP: Based on the information on your website and what you’ve shared here and in <a href="https://theproudestcolor.com/in-the-media">other interviews</a>, I realize THE PROUDEST COLOR comes from a place of personal experience and extensive professional research. Can you share some of what it means to you (as mental health professionals, as Middle Eastern Americans, as human beings), to be able to bring an authentic, <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23ownvoices&src=typed_query">#OwnVoices</a> story into the marketplace? </b></p><p><b>SM and JK: </b>We believe it is important to have more people share their stories because there is so much out there that needs to be told, especially in the Middle Eastern community where there is little representation. We know representation matters so it meant a lot to have our voice out there and to be able to include famous people from the Middle Eastern community to include in our book. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcUgHIpnTFyLcQg7QtL-Oqt9qt7NabRd2oUoJhnGgJl4rNigqt-MjJuSM3ZJvAl00OUlL5OzTR7UrG-f4VIGWyooi49tWXHcDJ04nGnwMdp-oVGDTSGU8McZ9nzcIYGWTsiBVBXk-Jyv2gHMKXuOpOgBR3fudZFcnI7ttPzXORXDPF5HRXYEHUK5pbjw/s1997/Famous%20Voices%20THE%20PROUDEST%20COLOR%20Screen%20Shot%202022-01-16%20at%2011.17.33%20PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1294" data-original-width="1997" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcUgHIpnTFyLcQg7QtL-Oqt9qt7NabRd2oUoJhnGgJl4rNigqt-MjJuSM3ZJvAl00OUlL5OzTR7UrG-f4VIGWyooi49tWXHcDJ04nGnwMdp-oVGDTSGU8McZ9nzcIYGWTsiBVBXk-Jyv2gHMKXuOpOgBR3fudZFcnI7ttPzXORXDPF5HRXYEHUK5pbjw/w400-h259/Famous%20Voices%20THE%20PROUDEST%20COLOR%20Screen%20Shot%202022-01-16%20at%2011.17.33%20PM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interior Image: <a href="https://www.familius.com/book/the-proudest-color/">THE PROUDEST COLOR</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNGzdu8Hyqx184sL19ShiHOuHg-zU4Qgbs8nRv8Ai3nOanQFfkvErXV0-AITOiwUEdnPAU6fCmBaWlThlPFvDrt6t5x3RJgPRuVsORQKrdXmaYti9ds6QHQqocMgXi97ZXUqfJylUaRlq4JXXUVqptwtKbUMyRvUTjCAk8rL_QMgTvhxwXTmn8VTi_bQ/s2427/Brown%20THE%20PROUDEST%20COLOR%20Screen%20Shot%202021-04-25%20at%206.29.23%20PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1418" data-original-width="2427" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNGzdu8Hyqx184sL19ShiHOuHg-zU4Qgbs8nRv8Ai3nOanQFfkvErXV0-AITOiwUEdnPAU6fCmBaWlThlPFvDrt6t5x3RJgPRuVsORQKrdXmaYti9ds6QHQqocMgXi97ZXUqfJylUaRlq4JXXUVqptwtKbUMyRvUTjCAk8rL_QMgTvhxwXTmn8VTi_bQ/w400-h234/Brown%20THE%20PROUDEST%20COLOR%20Screen%20Shot%202021-04-25%20at%206.29.23%20PM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interior Image: <a href="https://www.familius.com/book/the-proudest-color/">THE PROUDEST COLOR</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><b>DP: I'm so glad that your voices are out there, and that THE PROUDEST COLOR draws attention to some of the familiar and famous voices from the Middle Eastern community. </b></p><p><b>If you could go back in time, what would you tell your pre-published self? Or, said another way, what do you know now, that you wished you would have known a bit earlier?</b></p><p><b>SM and JK</b>: <i>The Proudest Color</i> was incredibly rare in how quickly it was written, accepted, and published. Our other books have not been that fast so we know things take time and it can often feel like a very slow process. It is also a very vulnerable experience to have your work out there and have others read it, so be gentle on yourself. Finally, we recommend celebrating all the wins, even the small ones, like getting your idea written out in a draft format, writing your query letter, imagining your illustrations – whatever it is – honor it because it’s a lot of work!</p><p><b>DP: Those are such empowering tips and reminders. Thank you for that.</b></p><p><b>Do you have anything you’d like to tell us about what you’re currently working on? </b></p><p><b>SM and JK: </b>We are writing more books on diversity and mental health topics and are excited to get them out there! People can find more information on us at <a href="http://www.theproudestcolor.com">www.theproudestcolor.com</a>.</p><p><b>DP: I really appreciate you sharing your path to publication for THE PROUDEST COLOR, </b><b>Dr. Sheila and Jeff</b><b>. I look forward to following your work and supporting this and future books. </b></p><p><b>Friends, you've heard me say it before: The best way to thank authors whose insights have been helpful and/or inspiring to you is to support their work. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Proudest-Color-Sheila-Jeffrey-Kashou/dp/1641705787/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1RC7UZ96YH8O3&keywords=the+proudest+color&qid=1667149130&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIxLjAyIiwicXNhIjoiMC44MSIsInFzcCI6IjAuNDQifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=the+proudest+color%2Caps%2C144&sr=8-1">Buy their books</a> for yourself and as gifts. Request them from <a href="https://www.worldcat.org/title/1227270241">your library</a>. Read and share them with others. These actions are especially important and impactful with THE PROUDEST COLOR, because by supporting this book, you are also promoting racial justice and supporting nonprofit organizations such as <a href="https://www.aclu.org/">ACLU</a>, who continue to promote racial justice. <a href="https://theproudestcolor.com/about">THE PROUDEST COLOR</a> is available everywhere books are sold, including from your local, independent bookstore (which you can access online via <a href="http://Bookshop.org">Bookshop.org</a>) and directly from <a href="https://www.familius.com/book/the-proudest-color/">Familius</a>, the publisher. </b> </p><p>********** </p><p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiauHO4HKhIT-aXtRJDrNd4XvvlC_wkFXl-Fb5-HJ1AeX7rdOXwgQOYOf054RDsdB3eHy845JQ7HP7zIGaK_2WARoTNiHIJJqrlfyaQQ6s8rdc-LjIZmb-GcwYPc6vu-qmsmPvMqIbWJfCRSjWEUsepy8Sk7dIAQZ5uU8G3PcweJ0PPCviMvB1LKgt1tw/s600/Dr.SheilaAndJeff.Headshot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="401" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiauHO4HKhIT-aXtRJDrNd4XvvlC_wkFXl-Fb5-HJ1AeX7rdOXwgQOYOf054RDsdB3eHy845JQ7HP7zIGaK_2WARoTNiHIJJqrlfyaQQ6s8rdc-LjIZmb-GcwYPc6vu-qmsmPvMqIbWJfCRSjWEUsepy8Sk7dIAQZ5uU8G3PcweJ0PPCviMvB1LKgt1tw/w268-h400/Dr.SheilaAndJeff.Headshot.jpg" width="268" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Credit: Lovers of Love</td></tr></tbody></table>As Middle Eastern Americans (Iranian and Palestinian) and as clinicians, Dr. Sheila Modir and Jeff advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion and work toward building resilience in children. Dr. Modir is a board certified psychologist at a children's hospital. She obtained a combined doctoral degree in Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychology at the University of California, Santa Barbara and her master’s degree in social welfare at UCLA. Dr. Modir has presented at conferences, spoken on podcasts, and published articles on the impact of racial trauma on mental health and risk and resilience factors. Jeff is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a manager of clinical product and service design for a mental health tech company. He has his master’s in clinical psychology from Pepperdine and was previously on the Board of Directors for the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.</p><p>Together they have advocated at the state and federal level for better mental health care policies, in addition to doing international work at a Red Cross refugee asylum in Belgium. They also consult on film and television productions, including for Disney and Freeform, to ensure that mental health is portrayed responsibly, and have been judges for the annual Sentinel Awards. </p><p>Find them on social media: </p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/drsheilamodir">@drsheilamodir</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drsheilasbookshelf/">@drsheilasbookshelf</a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://theproudestcolor.com/">https://theproudestcolor.com/</a></p><p>**********</p><p><a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a> is an occasional feature of Dawn Babb Prochovnic's blog. Dawn is the author of multiple picture books including, <i>Lucy's Blooms</i>, <i>Where Does a Cowgirl Go Potty?</i>, <i>Where Does a Pirate Go Potty?,</i> and 16 books in the <i>Story Time With Signs & Rhymes</i> series. Dawn is a contributing author to the award-winning book, <i>Oregon Reads Aloud</i>, and a frequent presenter at schools, libraries, and educational conferences. Contact Dawn using the form at the left, or learn more at <i>www.dawnprochovnic.com</i>. </p>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-30191493420421108382022-11-02T08:00:00.002-07:002022-11-03T07:22:42.515-07:00Birth Stories for Books: LITTLE RED AND THE BIG BAD EDITOR, by Rebecca Kraft Rector<p>Hello readers! In today's edition of <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a>, we take a behind-the-scenes look at the path to publication for <a href="https://rebeccakraftrector.wordpress.com/">Rebecca Kraft Rector</a>'s new book, <a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/little-red-and-the-big-bad-editor-rebecca-kraft-rector/18236266?ean=9781534469297">LITTLE RED AND THE BIG BAD EDITOR</a>, (illustrated by <a href="https://www.shandamc.com/">Shanda McCloskey</a>, <a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/572986/squish-squash-squished-by-rebecca-kraft-rector-illustrated-by-dana-wulfekotte/">Aladdin/Simon & Schuster</a>, September 2022). </p><p>The book is based on such a fun concept. I can't wait to hear more about how it came to be. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLfmAZEC4jpjFy7A1124b4Vs9Pk-FlPXzbvz4Kk_PTVnzew47DXB82-vnAlBEUhIP2lIhcalmKS3uaZYG1WrAx6ur7h24A_F-u-h2erGZHwDvQOrEhgYGKdVbSFJuJlQp7N89RkLi8MOGn8AJ7ZaXPtu_spr7jvfHQkoKup9BnI9dZAc5hWwNskPDg4w/s500/Little%20Red%20RKRcover.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="388" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLfmAZEC4jpjFy7A1124b4Vs9Pk-FlPXzbvz4Kk_PTVnzew47DXB82-vnAlBEUhIP2lIhcalmKS3uaZYG1WrAx6ur7h24A_F-u-h2erGZHwDvQOrEhgYGKdVbSFJuJlQp7N89RkLi8MOGn8AJ7ZaXPtu_spr7jvfHQkoKup9BnI9dZAc5hWwNskPDg4w/w310-h400/Little%20Red%20RKRcover.png" width="310" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">by <a href="https://rebeccakraftrector.wordpress.com/">Rebecca Kraft Rector</a> and <a href="https://www.shandamc.com/">Shanda McCloskey</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><b>Dawn Prochovnic: Welcome back to the blog, Rebecca. In <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2021/02/birth-stories-for-books-squish-squash.html">our last interview</a>, you shared your path to publication experience for an earlier book, <a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/squish-squash-squished-rebecca-kraft-rector/14720157?ean=9780525516835">SQUISH SQUASH SQUISHED</a>. I’m looking forward to learning more about your latest book, <a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/little-red-and-the-big-bad-editor-rebecca-kraft-rector/18236266?ean=9781534469297">LITTLE RED AND THE BIG BAD EDITOR</a>.</b></p><p><b>Rebecca Kraft Rector</b>: Thanks, Dawn!</p><p><b>DP: Speaking of editors, can you share with us the process and timeframe between your initial idea for this book and the story that was formulated fully enough to submit to a REAL LIVE EDITOR? </b></p><p><b>RKR</b>: It took about 30 revisions and two years from idea to submission. My agent suggested submitting the story to editors as a package with sketches from one of her illustrators. I’d never heard of submitting a package, but as soon as I saw Shanda McCloskey’s sketches, I said Yes, yes, yes! They were absolutely perfect, full of energy, personality, and sass. Fabulous! I am so very lucky that Shanda agreed to do the illustrations.</p><p><b>DP: What a great match up. The illustrations are so much fun! And it sounds like your agent's submission approach was a good one. </b></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPPnFTV5kgYbdoLmMd7dTEewfmUNK5frG-syLXVWSS8NxN8OEUR5893JGp84MeurqEdPrm7MSFHHZ8BQDk96xfRKfDe8UuB8oV7MumdrkIU23JUDCLXtwL6iKItY1Mbuzi6QX9WrmU4Do_2zv2kvX7XzwmcMOJmpovR6j65sx3GvMUV2PWF9daJgqDQw/s1225/Little%20Red%20interior%201.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="691" data-original-width="1225" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPPnFTV5kgYbdoLmMd7dTEewfmUNK5frG-syLXVWSS8NxN8OEUR5893JGp84MeurqEdPrm7MSFHHZ8BQDk96xfRKfDe8UuB8oV7MumdrkIU23JUDCLXtwL6iKItY1Mbuzi6QX9WrmU4Do_2zv2kvX7XzwmcMOJmpovR6j65sx3GvMUV2PWF9daJgqDQw/w400-h226/Little%20Red%20interior%201.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Credit: <a href="https://www.shandamc.com/about-me/">Shanda McCloskey</a>, from LITTLE RED AND THE BIG BAD EDITOR</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA_f86PHCsWI89Na2-v6hb0ZsH_C8fm8qCmienRcfKIv9Gx8Tu1srax2Yi3a8sjlsGldBVgz9fB0gevYFd9j_8OA3l7h4YkSgKiOq7muA2SFQYo5zejkvG2pXwn_f8gVjHcTgl_fltOiq_dlnlEK04N75HXurf9DRuxgDuEaQgglxHzn3WDs-umeoPTQ/s1030/Little%20Red%20interior%202.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="661" data-original-width="1030" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA_f86PHCsWI89Na2-v6hb0ZsH_C8fm8qCmienRcfKIv9Gx8Tu1srax2Yi3a8sjlsGldBVgz9fB0gevYFd9j_8OA3l7h4YkSgKiOq7muA2SFQYo5zejkvG2pXwn_f8gVjHcTgl_fltOiq_dlnlEK04N75HXurf9DRuxgDuEaQgglxHzn3WDs-umeoPTQ/w400-h256/Little%20Red%20interior%202.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Credit: <a href="https://www.shandamc.com/about-me/">Shanda McCloskey</a>, from LITTLE RED AND THE BIG BAD EDITOR</td></tr></tbody></table><b><br /></b><p></p><p><b>When you compare one of your earliest drafts of this story to the version in the published book, what stands out for you in terms of what is most different? Likewise, is there anything in particular that stands out that was included in your earliest drafts and survived the revision process?</b></p><p><b>RKR</b>: In the first drafts, Little Red met two other animals before Mr. Wolf. Then I had Mr. Wolf disguised as other animals. Finally, I had him appear as himself immediately. The other versions distracted from the point of the story. Right from the start I knew Red would write Granny a thank you letter for the cape and Mr. Wolf would correct it and thus miss eating Red.</p><p><b>DP: It sounds like you really took the idea of revising until the story was just right to heart. That's an important tip we all could learn from. </b></p><p><b>Reflecting on the journey from idea to published book, is there any one moment along the way that you credit with opening the door for this particular story to find its way to publication? </b></p><p><b>RKR</b>: I think it was when I started having fun with the language—adding alliteration, assonance, similes, idioms, etc.</p><p><b>DP: I think most of our stories get better when we lean into the fun! </b></p><p><b>When you compare your path to publication for LITTLE RED to your experience with SQUISH SQUASH SQUISHED, what are some of the key similarities and differences in terms of the publication journeys for each?</b></p><p><b>RKR</b>: SQUISHED was an old story that I took to a <a href="https://twitter.com/HighlightsFound">Highlights workshop</a> where it was ‘discovered.’ LITTLE RED was a completely new story. SQUISHED was called a modern take on an old tale. I hadn’t set out to do that. But with LITTLE RED, I purposefully looked for an old tale that I could twist. I played with titles and came up with LITTLE RED WRITING HOOD. And the idea of the thank you letter was inspired by that.</p><p><b>DP: I just love the word play and the concept. It's so much fun. </b></p><p><b>You have a fantastic <a href="https://rebeccakraftrector.wordpress.com/parents-educators/little-red-and-the-big-bad-editor/">Parent and Educator's Guide</a> for LITTLE RED on your website. It looks like both you and the illustrator, <a href="https://www.shandamc.com/little-red-and-the-big-bad-editor/">Shanda McCloskey</a>, had a hand in this. Can you provide some insights about how this guide came together? Have you received any feedback from parents and educators about how they are putting this resource to good use? </b></p><p><b>RKR</b>: I wrote a basic <a href="https://rebeccakraftrector.wordpress.com/parents-educators/">Educator’s Guide for SQUISHED</a> and I thought I’d do something similar with LITTLE RED. But Shanda suggested we do one together. We talked about things we could include and she outlined it and put together her part of it quickly. It was amazing. I wanted to be sure my part of the Guide reflected curriculum standards. I’d been writing educational test passages and questions, as well as other things for educational publishers. So my mind was stuffed with standards. That actually slowed me down for a long time. I couldn’t include everything! We have had some teacher feedback that it’s just what they need, but we haven’t heard how it’s actually being used in the classroom. Yet.</p><p><b>DP: One of my favorite parts of being an author is connecting with young readers at school, library, and bookstore visits, and I’m always looking for new pro tips. Now that you have launched several books, (two while the world has been navigating a pandemic), what professional advice or suggestions do you have for fellow author/presenters in terms of planning successful (in-person and/or remote) events? </b></p><p><b>RKR</b>: Websites and social media are great ways to make people aware of you and your availability. If you’re doing a virtual visit, try to test your equipment on their platform ahead of time. My microphone worked fine on Skype and Zoom, but wouldn’t work at all for Crowdcast. I had to type answers into the chat box! Shanda has a wonderful <a href="http://authorvisitpodcast.com/">podcast</a> with lots of great tips. </p><p><b>DP: Great tip on testing individual platforms ahead of time, and wow! What a fantastic resource. I was not familiar with this podcast. Thanks so much for sharing it. </b></p><p><b>If you could go back in time, what would you tell your pre-published self? Or, said another way, what do you know now, that you wished you would have known a bit earlier?</b></p><p><b>RKR</b>: “Just keep swimming.” Write. Persist. Do what makes you happy. You may have to kiss a lot of frogs before you meet your prince. But it only takes one “yes.”</p><p><b>DP: That's fantastic advice, Rebecca. </b></p><p><b>Thanks so much for sharing your Birth Story for <a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Little-Red-and-the-Big-Bad-Editor/Rebecca-Kraft-Rector/9781534469297">LITTLE RED AND THE BIG BAD EDITOR</a> with us.</b></p><p><b>Readers, Rebecca's books are available everywhere books are sold, including your local indie bookstore, which you can access online via <a href="https://bookshop.org/books?keywords=rebecca+kraft+rector">Bookshop</a>. And if you can't add another book to your personal library, you can still support Rebecca's work by requesting one or more of her books from <a href="https://www.worldcat.org/search?q=au=%22Rector,%20Rebecca%20Kraft%22">your local library</a>. </b></p><p><br /></p><p>********** </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsyP9o7dC7U2pTDXaY0SqgGFG8mMJzk1hXncxP-TktJdJJIcSVqhyi5kZ8_bVIWgiKG3xCx7IXjcpVI_xsk3gjcdlwt6HUEgUMSGVx6kdeJzz6MTF1fSMOyIhdNag3cXZ0EJotXOr6_hOM23ni5nCqKYJ7knUXNQPIV2hy7IQUfR5MYNPGrwgBtM8nMQ/s408/Rebecca%20Kraft%20Rector%20Head%20Shot.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="347" data-original-width="408" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsyP9o7dC7U2pTDXaY0SqgGFG8mMJzk1hXncxP-TktJdJJIcSVqhyi5kZ8_bVIWgiKG3xCx7IXjcpVI_xsk3gjcdlwt6HUEgUMSGVx6kdeJzz6MTF1fSMOyIhdNag3cXZ0EJotXOr6_hOM23ni5nCqKYJ7knUXNQPIV2hy7IQUfR5MYNPGrwgBtM8nMQ/s320/Rebecca%20Kraft%20Rector%20Head%20Shot.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Rebecca Kraft Rector is a retired librarian and the author of more than thirty fiction and nonfiction books for children. Her cats Ollie and Opal keep her company while she writes. When she isn’t writing and eating chocolate, she’s trying to keep deer out of her garden.<p></p><p>LITTLE RED AND THE BIG BAD EDITOR is Rebecca’s second picture book, published by Aladdin/Simon & Schuster in 2022.</p><p>Visit Rebecca online at <a href="https://rebeccakraftrector.wordpress.com">https://rebeccakraftrector.wordpress.com</a>. </p><br /><p></p><p>**********</p><p><a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a> is an occasional feature of Dawn Babb Prochovnic's blog. Dawn is the author of multiple picture books including, <i>Lucy's Blooms</i>, <i>Where Does a Cowgirl Go Potty?</i>, <i>Where Does a Pirate Go Potty?</i>, and 16 books in the <i>Story Time With Signs & Rhymes</i> series. Dawn is a contributing author to the award-winning book, <i>Oregon Reads Aloud</i>, and a frequent presenter at schools, libraries, and educational conferences. Contact Dawn using the form at the left, or learn more at <a href="http://www.dawnprochovnic.com">www.dawnprochovnic.com</a>. </p>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-43630534813866498012022-10-25T08:00:00.001-07:002022-10-25T08:00:00.212-07:00Have Swag Will Travel: UP AND ADAM, by Debbie Zapata<p>Dear readers, I'm pleased to bring you another post in my blog series, <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2020/06/have-swag-will-travel-tips-for-planning.html">Have Swag, Will Travel: Tips for Planning Book Events</a>.</p><p>Today's guest is author, <a href="https://debbiezapata.com/">Debbie Zapata</a>, who shares her experiences planning inclusive book events and story times, featuring her debut picture book, UP AND ADAM, illustrated by <a href="https://www.yonglingkang.com/about">Yong Ling Kang</a> (<a href="https://www.kidscanpress.com/product/up-and-adam/">Kids Can Press</a>, May 2022). Debbie's insights and resources are helpful year round, but they are especially timely in October, which is <a href="https://ndss.org/down-syndrome-awareness-month">Down syndrome awareness month</a>. </p><p>Take it away, Debbie!</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW4WbtUBaduwnj4F9UD0WGq7--vmjuF8gXhJhMLcKBBowODgGx71sdjYiNqonCbtpxB-vrVBDEKlX9BHVA6bPel3QDMzji5ERjTzG-TQn2grq3vW2zu3nmpt88JnfNA4tHvzRIuX6PuKNmtkD6WIHPbhQ4_t0ZpIKkDHln6EhQ6dBcaCO2oW_-yyNyZA/s3076/DZ_Up%20and%20Adam%20COVER.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2775" data-original-width="3076" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW4WbtUBaduwnj4F9UD0WGq7--vmjuF8gXhJhMLcKBBowODgGx71sdjYiNqonCbtpxB-vrVBDEKlX9BHVA6bPel3QDMzji5ERjTzG-TQn2grq3vW2zu3nmpt88JnfNA4tHvzRIuX6PuKNmtkD6WIHPbhQ4_t0ZpIKkDHln6EhQ6dBcaCO2oW_-yyNyZA/w400-h361/DZ_Up%20and%20Adam%20COVER.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">by <a href="https://debbiezapata.com/">Debbie Zapata</a> and <a href="https://www.yonglingkang.com/about">Yong Ling Kang</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>Storytime for All: UP AND ADAM</b></p><p>by <a href="https://debbiezapata.com/">Debbie Zapata</a></p><p>Thanks so much for having me, Dawn, on your fab kidlit blog! I launched my debut picture book recently. I knew it would be a wild ride, so I cofounded <a href=" https://www.kidlitcaravan.com/">Kidlit Caravan</a>, a troupe of authors with debut picture books new in ‘22. A debut group is a great way to surround yourself with writers on the same journey who can cheer one another on and celebrate our book birthdays together.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_fUNx2OH7KfhLbtv_f96epQUowj9P1WxrmZEg61c7qvutKOnNzXU_sIkOfV_vdSaNBz1mogVawv5CXqNQ0hEQMtjVIkB-iNQFRR5v7QNYJQrSmLbXuCLDD1yzulE-jzfSnrn11_T7-xXvxefJYWKZJxbeU8qX0yUgVe-I7cbcTWUfd9qgXrOAl6Ii2w/s1080/1.debutgroupDZ.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_fUNx2OH7KfhLbtv_f96epQUowj9P1WxrmZEg61c7qvutKOnNzXU_sIkOfV_vdSaNBz1mogVawv5CXqNQ0hEQMtjVIkB-iNQFRR5v7QNYJQrSmLbXuCLDD1yzulE-jzfSnrn11_T7-xXvxefJYWKZJxbeU8qX0yUgVe-I7cbcTWUfd9qgXrOAl6Ii2w/w400-h400/1.debutgroupDZ.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Source: <a href="https://debbiezapata.com/">Debbie Zapata</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><i>Up and Adam</i>, released in May 2022 (Kids Can Press, illustrated by Yong Ling Kang). Adam, a young boy with Down syndrome, and his dog, Up, help their community after a big storm. When the Mayor asks the community for help, Up and Adam spring into action and lend a hand wherever they can. But it turns out, Adam’s most important contribution is one he doesn’t even think about—his smile. Adam’s open-hearted and infectious smile lights the pages as he lifts spirits all over town.</p><p>As a child I loved to write stories. It wasn’t until my son was born with Down syndrome that the story concept for <i>Up and Adam</i> took shape. Seeing my work in print has been a tremendous joy because I believe in a world in which all children can see themselves in the pages of a book. Only about 3% of children’s picture books include a prominent character with a disability. <i>Up and Adam</i> features a protagonist with Down syndrome and focuses on the character’s abilities. I hope it inspires children to see how everyone can make a difference in their community.</p><p>The book, <i>Up and Adam</i> is designed for readers of all ages and abilities. It is an uplifting story that celebrates individuality, volunteerism, and community. The best part of it being out in the world, is that I get to meet readers at inclusive storytime events and school visits. </p><p>Once an event is scheduled, I get to work on marketing. I let people know that all ages and abilities are welcome. I like to incorporate help from my son. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXDY0drXBhfUy_nuZZXT-K-PF47kZNmjOdspCIvQi6eW73krE26ew6vhaiqvMBjOm9W0QxLuGZFIHBTiR-azJsoJD5aBn5vCtWhOz3BSG5iK30gJ-AGVWRuQ0BvPgLVHDCTJO8-RAPVFQLujaXOMMkCv63KSXMA7rsKxJHItrS5D9eHjj1NmqoVKTGfw/s1080/2.marketingDZ.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXDY0drXBhfUy_nuZZXT-K-PF47kZNmjOdspCIvQi6eW73krE26ew6vhaiqvMBjOm9W0QxLuGZFIHBTiR-azJsoJD5aBn5vCtWhOz3BSG5iK30gJ-AGVWRuQ0BvPgLVHDCTJO8-RAPVFQLujaXOMMkCv63KSXMA7rsKxJHItrS5D9eHjj1NmqoVKTGfw/w400-h400/2.marketingDZ.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Source: <a href="https://debbiezapata.com/">Debbie Zapata</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>I advertise that a range of craft choices will be available. I initially did this in order to address a range of abilities. However, at the first Up and Adam storytime event, I saw that all kids chose based on their mood or personal preference. I realize that not just kids, but all people make different choices based on what they need at any given time. It is by tuning in to what each person needs that we open up a world filled with compassion, empathy, and connection.</p><p>There is a fun scene in the story at Up and Adam’s neighborhood pizzeria. So, I offer a pizza decorating craft project that has a variety of choices including:</p><p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Paper plate decorating with precut pizza toppings and variety of glue stick sizes</p><p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/821761566/pizza-party-play-dough-mat-coloring-page?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=pizza+coloring+sheets&ref=sr_gallery-1-15&organic_search_click=1">Pizza decorating sheets</a> printed on paper to color with different size markers</p><p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Pizza decorating sheets laminated to decorate with playdoh toppings</p><p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Laminated cheese pizza printout to decorate with Velcro pizza toppings</p><p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Sticker pizza slices to decorate with toppings stickers</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCbbyszgRMTqMXLzQ9WwoI0wnHJveQI660yEJCe7Y0-5tvhkYZv9mzqTpR3UTbvyi5FINywamMDjjghxrSDWqVR6rPHNxYNg6V7P7DOwgnwZzys3rUbYBa0I4gueIaD1eSpgokDrk35u5DdfcOj0MMmK6VJyJBjt6SmDAURtiIMlLuxwk2Zvg9N0ic3g/s4032/3.A%20range%20of%20craft%20choicesDZ.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCbbyszgRMTqMXLzQ9WwoI0wnHJveQI660yEJCe7Y0-5tvhkYZv9mzqTpR3UTbvyi5FINywamMDjjghxrSDWqVR6rPHNxYNg6V7P7DOwgnwZzys3rUbYBa0I4gueIaD1eSpgokDrk35u5DdfcOj0MMmK6VJyJBjt6SmDAURtiIMlLuxwk2Zvg9N0ic3g/w400-h300/3.A%20range%20of%20craft%20choicesDZ.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSC9PlPSyMYNLPdJRmAQygtn9pbjbtIYrEdU4SZOObgBCZQ10xJjwJRYuPX6OnAaIZLXctrosQi5EKZChab-DVb1gwMZrXmA02WEYahqHJOy9jq6GDCfxRWs_FQvhw6EyJrN9TP8UNoNoo6WJRQ9o-9JpVx0ISZDl22kWB_EMsxRMfCmjnmOScuOMlkQ/s1080/4.activities%20for%20all%20abilitiesDZ.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSC9PlPSyMYNLPdJRmAQygtn9pbjbtIYrEdU4SZOObgBCZQ10xJjwJRYuPX6OnAaIZLXctrosQi5EKZChab-DVb1gwMZrXmA02WEYahqHJOy9jq6GDCfxRWs_FQvhw6EyJrN9TP8UNoNoo6WJRQ9o-9JpVx0ISZDl22kWB_EMsxRMfCmjnmOScuOMlkQ/w400-h400/4.activities%20for%20all%20abilitiesDZ.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Source: <a href="https://debbiezapata.com/">Debbie Zapata</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I bring along a number of visual schedules for anyone who may find it easier to participate if they know what is occurring during inclusive storytime.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG8AefHEWRC_f78unPEcGf11agmo5SSNJ7wqLYxMeiSecMRmBQZs9lRUuYhnm_mW9LU_ekKbvZ9zte2jQutVDfrZrRxzIRpXo6HZ_97XEn4Lzfj3MJjfYCJ5g1YNCSvth11dYHVW5TcZxD-qps4Lbpc3mQGXsRdJM-PGa6PZK3-EgorRVCX1MTP-dzdQ/s4032/5.A%20visual%20scheduleDZ.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG8AefHEWRC_f78unPEcGf11agmo5SSNJ7wqLYxMeiSecMRmBQZs9lRUuYhnm_mW9LU_ekKbvZ9zte2jQutVDfrZrRxzIRpXo6HZ_97XEn4Lzfj3MJjfYCJ5g1YNCSvth11dYHVW5TcZxD-qps4Lbpc3mQGXsRdJM-PGa6PZK3-EgorRVCX1MTP-dzdQ/w400-h300/5.A%20visual%20scheduleDZ.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Source: <a href="https://debbiezapata.com/">Debbie Zapata</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I have endless ideas for activities for all ages and abilities. I often print out fun word searches and bring along a collection of writing instruments including adaptive pencils. </p><p>I love meeting my son’s friends and teachers who recognize my son’s traits in the story. I also love making new friends, signing books, and hearing what it’s like for their family to see a character who has Down syndrome in a picture book that focuses on his abilities. An American Sign Language interpreter is at the book reading to interpret the story alongside the reader. I’ll ask a friend to hold up another copy of the book so everyone can see the pictures. When I read to a large group, I do a digital visual presentation of the book.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRZ7K5NXZt8xR6002TUQ-xDFxUdibfLzo4kVbQNXs7HA8IPyqyDbyq8gHxSWM5EgP9s9sWc3KEhWpte81WcO3p4nYVecZE1j1UUH-t9fB8tutosjDq1hrOlnzRTnXUXE9yMGskPdP5Vpgvb6EFQerqkaA0OhVn148qnqCQ-93CDHFejuwKqMUX9rgbmQ/s1080/6.ASL%20interpreterDZ.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRZ7K5NXZt8xR6002TUQ-xDFxUdibfLzo4kVbQNXs7HA8IPyqyDbyq8gHxSWM5EgP9s9sWc3KEhWpte81WcO3p4nYVecZE1j1UUH-t9fB8tutosjDq1hrOlnzRTnXUXE9yMGskPdP5Vpgvb6EFQerqkaA0OhVn148qnqCQ-93CDHFejuwKqMUX9rgbmQ/w400-h400/6.ASL%20interpreterDZ.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Source: <a href="https://debbiezapata.com/">Debbie Zapata</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I appreciate that my local indie <a href="https://bookshop.org/pages/store_locator?location=aDJkxjQR8O">Book People</a> chose to shelve <i>Up and Adam</i> in the section called ‘Being Me.’ Some people want my son to sign their copy of the book. I ordered stickers that act as his personalization (I hope this makes you smile) and he writes his name below.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRi0Q3uo1VUzxf6cuTCSscuFrNia8NfbGryhq1DTz3GuSTcA964ZLzWThH8AJWhDz0f9l6hak25_4nWeiOYmmAzqXEcYM3n5QrhBviHhhYI9O59_HUrJt4TZP-TQ127DlZUUSl9cqu8W2LNxxoBJutF7voX2uGfzJBRP9OCvOcDbh6V4-_bYORDBIbqQ/s1080/7.bookstore%20and%20signingDZ.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRi0Q3uo1VUzxf6cuTCSscuFrNia8NfbGryhq1DTz3GuSTcA964ZLzWThH8AJWhDz0f9l6hak25_4nWeiOYmmAzqXEcYM3n5QrhBviHhhYI9O59_HUrJt4TZP-TQ127DlZUUSl9cqu8W2LNxxoBJutF7voX2uGfzJBRP9OCvOcDbh6V4-_bYORDBIbqQ/w400-h400/7.bookstore%20and%20signingDZ.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Source: <a href="https://debbiezapata.com/">Debbie Zapata</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>It is an honor to visit schools that provide education to children of all abilities in an inclusive setting. Kids enjoy meeting Up and Adam and often find it hard to say goodbye. I like to leave a little something with the kids.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKYmo9zq5IyI_Yov8nGtUNyH40p72AFSz2eNVmIaRa5beHo2Pi91_m0PQK3AYBIpCgNuZEb2W_1CfDIcVsFh7kSOJbR-XqxE2llsQAkBLDeHoWIe5N5UiQlbS2Oira4hHnZSXHWBNzY2pjsbgN0AFOjFlIWMMjr3D0tf1vSsU0gaif3Tqh4WA1L7HmNQ/s1080/8.school%20visitDZ.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKYmo9zq5IyI_Yov8nGtUNyH40p72AFSz2eNVmIaRa5beHo2Pi91_m0PQK3AYBIpCgNuZEb2W_1CfDIcVsFh7kSOJbR-XqxE2llsQAkBLDeHoWIe5N5UiQlbS2Oira4hHnZSXHWBNzY2pjsbgN0AFOjFlIWMMjr3D0tf1vSsU0gaif3Tqh4WA1L7HmNQ/w400-h400/8.school%20visitDZ.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Source: <a href="https://debbiezapata.com/">Debbie Zapata</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>A little storytime swag goes a long way. I like to offer kids a choice between two stickers (i.e. happy face or flower) and then a choice between two different colors. They love picking a sticker just for them! Thanks to my wonderful publisher <a href="https://www.kidscanpress.com/product/up-and-adam/">Kids Can Press</a>, I can also share <a href="https://www.kidscanpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/UpAndAdam_2754_activity.pdf"><i>Up and Adam</i> coloring and activity pages</a>. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxxrPdOghdK9wl8J4QIx11LeuEt3Tg1JmLhOINFDAofaRczspOMS5FQFiXBU8GEGiSGrX8f62GcKgMn-L6vGejJBqQIp61O8NO0AemubTD4Eu78brnZEb5pmfnQsTIE2IzjHwHtUN08XLVOVJNQDYq5bBWeM6U-zY07vygATUc3OO8PvQsdpjkX6mUvw/s1080/9.storytime%20swagDZ.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxxrPdOghdK9wl8J4QIx11LeuEt3Tg1JmLhOINFDAofaRczspOMS5FQFiXBU8GEGiSGrX8f62GcKgMn-L6vGejJBqQIp61O8NO0AemubTD4Eu78brnZEb5pmfnQsTIE2IzjHwHtUN08XLVOVJNQDYq5bBWeM6U-zY07vygATUc3OO8PvQsdpjkX6mUvw/w400-h400/9.storytime%20swagDZ.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Source: <a href="https://debbiezapata.com/">Debbie Zapata</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p>I love seeing photos shared on social media of families reading <i>Up and Adam</i> together. It’s wonderful to receive messages from parents expressing how much it means to them and their family member with a disability to see a protagonist with Down syndrome in a picture book. And it was an honor to participate in <a href="https://www.slj.com/event/school-library-journal-day-of-dialog-2022-spring">School Library Journal Day of Dialog </a>last May. I was on a panel called Out and About: Children, their families, and communities shine in these uplifting picture books. I was elated when I read the <a href="https://www.slj.com/author?query=Zapata%2C%20Debbie">School Library Journal review</a> for <i>Up and Adam</i>. Warm reception for a book featuring a character with a disability helps it reach readers.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6bN-mf18fCkw-4ghQ4JQJ1Zc8hmLpJjePBIcNJm_pq0JstosPfExM-pIH1lRkUkUWxKDUWX-9d33pCH6XIPFiCYlSoagKsbS4k0kG5xTNzia7ux6hi_ybJ6ntSvR-QizKAZTVy9yKzIXkQ9UvXBkhHnJhcv5QsxzdgDfgg1CYSW-276kGGBG5yo4OEw/s1080/10.slj%20reviewDZ.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6bN-mf18fCkw-4ghQ4JQJ1Zc8hmLpJjePBIcNJm_pq0JstosPfExM-pIH1lRkUkUWxKDUWX-9d33pCH6XIPFiCYlSoagKsbS4k0kG5xTNzia7ux6hi_ybJ6ntSvR-QizKAZTVy9yKzIXkQ9UvXBkhHnJhcv5QsxzdgDfgg1CYSW-276kGGBG5yo4OEw/w400-h400/10.slj%20reviewDZ.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>I am already getting quite a few requests for library storytime events, school visits, and I’m part of the author lineup for the 2022 <a href="https://www.texasbookfestival.org/2022-festival-authors-speakers/">Texas Book Festival</a>. It will be held in Austin the first weekend of November. <i>Up and Adam</i> will be featured in the Read Me a Story Tent on Congress Ave on Sunday November 6th at 3 p.m. It will be an inclusive storytime not to be missed! Follow me on social media (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/debbiezapata.author/">IG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/debbieazapata">Twitter</a>) or check my <a href="https://debbiezapata.com/">website</a> for other upcoming announcement regarding <i>Up and Adam</i> news and events.</p><p>Writing, marketing, and book promotion is challenging. But the moments of sharing your book with kids of all ages and abilities, is worth it.</p><p><b>This is such an excellent post, Debbie. Your enthusiasm for inclusion is contagious! I especially appreciate how any educator (e.g. a teacher, librarian, community educator, or a parent) could easily lead a lesson around your book just by following your detailed notes and tips in this post. For this reason, I will also add this post to the lesson plans featured in my <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2019/04/start-to-finish-story-time-expanded.html">Start to Finish Story Time series</a>. </b></p><p><b>Readers, UP AND ADAM is available everywhere books are sold, but by now you know I'm partial to supporting your local indie bookstore--you can do that online via <a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/up-and-adam-debbie-zapata/17983742?ean=9781525304415 ">Bookshop.org</a>. And if you can't add another book to your personal library, you can still support Debbie's work by requesting UP AND ADAM from <a href="https://www.worldcat.org/title/1251910621">your local library</a>.</b> </p><p>********** </p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilAWRJUf4eKHVfkb-TmAWD1Fdwl8WnYf2K4hVynZb2MLVJfo7Yh6hVfoyexCMWnnMNWUHNSE0yp4ZzZhl6ihDxaXZ_oJ5JIK8LXDUkDnEt5K7Q9mQcYWs6B0TGWNJfrBuNuqpisw5RhUQI6Wdea9_68tV2-1Z8X7awBz_5jKF5AIhk-YTU9ljtYORyeg/s3888/DebbieZapata_headshot%20by%20Joni%20Lorraine.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="3888" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilAWRJUf4eKHVfkb-TmAWD1Fdwl8WnYf2K4hVynZb2MLVJfo7Yh6hVfoyexCMWnnMNWUHNSE0yp4ZzZhl6ihDxaXZ_oJ5JIK8LXDUkDnEt5K7Q9mQcYWs6B0TGWNJfrBuNuqpisw5RhUQI6Wdea9_68tV2-1Z8X7awBz_5jKF5AIhk-YTU9ljtYORyeg/s320/DebbieZapata_headshot%20by%20Joni%20Lorraine.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Credit: Joni Lorraine</td></tr></tbody></table>Debbie Zapata grew up in a multicultural family in Austin, Texas. She enjoys helping others as a counselor and writing books for children that have heart and humor. Debbie loves creating stories about ordinary people doing extraordinary things. She believes each of us has the ability to make the world a better place. Debbie lives in Austin with her family. Up and Adam (Kids Can Press, May 2022 illustrated by Yong Ling Kang) is her first picture book. <br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p>**********</p><p><a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2020/06/have-swag-will-travel-tips-for-planning.html">Have Swag Will Travel</a> is an occasional feature of Dawn Babb Prochovnic's blog. Dawn is the author of multiple picture books including, <i>Lucy's Blooms</i>, <i>Where Does a Cowgirl Go Potty?</i>, <i>Where Does a Pirate Go Potty?</i>, and 16 books in the <i>Story Time With Signs & Rhymes </i>series. Dawn is a contributing author to the award-winning book, <i>Oregon Reads Aloud</i>, and a frequent presenter at schools, libraries, and educational conferences. Contact Dawn using the form at the left, or learn more at <a href="http://www.dawnprochovnic.com">www.dawnprochovnic.com</a>. </p>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-90612690299023102292022-08-04T14:55:00.003-07:002024-03-09T14:30:07.186-08:00The "Listening to Live Music" Part of the Writing Life<p>As <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2019/02/the-consuming-art-part-of-writing-life.html">I've mentioned before</a>, listening to live music is one way I feed my creative soul. </p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTm2_RnGqNfmqnQUVjAvWKWNjWDyZOJHR-9Mp7EGezqPbWkKj2PwoTsFG9vKjLazlKYt3kz2hDJqGg8cwpSmH62mq1zvk3WZnlEFE5uvC5W4hwBjuHqofsjObP8GTXv90BSvBAqhhmZ_uWRW-VMEPWWxuYZUbRbpVAS22-NLlsZhEdnRSsS1u0XJ2jRA/s4032/IMG_0018.Jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTm2_RnGqNfmqnQUVjAvWKWNjWDyZOJHR-9Mp7EGezqPbWkKj2PwoTsFG9vKjLazlKYt3kz2hDJqGg8cwpSmH62mq1zvk3WZnlEFE5uvC5W4hwBjuHqofsjObP8GTXv90BSvBAqhhmZ_uWRW-VMEPWWxuYZUbRbpVAS22-NLlsZhEdnRSsS1u0XJ2jRA/w300-h400/IMG_0018.Jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting for <a href="https://www.blindpilot.com/">Blind Pilot</a> to Enter the Stage at Pioneer Courthouse Square, July 2022<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p>I've decided to make this pastime a bit easier on myself by creating a blog post with links to some of the bands and music venues I most enjoy. If you are local to Portland and/or Sunriver/Bend, Oregon (or just passing through), maybe this resource will be helpful and inspiring to you, too. If so, I hope you will bookmark it and/or share it with a friend. </p><p></p><p><b>Some of my favorite musical artists</b>: </p><p><a href="https://www.blindpilot.com/">Blind Pilot</a> (They do an annual show at the <a href="https://libertyastoria.org/">Liberty Theater in Astoria</a>. We've also heard the lead singer, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/israelnebeker/?hl=en">Isreal Nebeker</a>, solo.)</p><p><a href="https://foxandbones.com/shows">Fox and Bones</a> (The artists who wrote and recorded <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2020/12/the-story-telling-part-of-writing-life.html">this moving song</a>, a tribute to the tremendous life of my late father-in-law, Henry Prochovnic)</p><p><a href="https://www.glenphillips.com/">Glen Phillip</a>s (I also enjoy the full band, <a href="https://toadthewetsprocket.com/on-tour/">Toad the Wet Sprocket</a>)</p><p><a href="https://jonathabrooke.com/tour">Jonatha Brooke</a> (Some day I hope to see her <a href="https://jonathabrooke.com/4noses">4 Noses Show</a>. Support her "Kitchen Covid Concerts," <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/jonathabrooke/playlists">here</a> .)</p><p><a href="https://www.thejunebugs.net/gigs-and-shows">The Junebugs</a> (The lead singer composed and recorded the <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/08/the-song-writing-part-of-writing-life.html">anniversary song</a> I wrote for my husband)</p><p><a href="https://www.maiahwynne.com/tourdates">Maiah Wynne</a> (The musical artist behind the beautiful <a href="https://youtu.be/QbaYebEWTTs">companion song</a> to <i><a href="https://www.westmarginpress.com/search/?q=prochovnic">Lucy's Blooms</a>. </i>Join her <a href="https://www.patreon.com/maiahwynne">Patreon here)</a> </p><p><a href="https://paulacole.com/home#tour">Paula Cole</a> (I have admired and supported her work since the early 1990's. Listen to an <a href="https://thehustle.podbean.com/e/episode-324-paula-cole/">interview here</a>.)</p><p><a href="https://shawnmullins.com/">Shawn Mullins</a> (His songs are like stories. I especially love <i><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/0D5vG8Ue7MHe4TxRm2t9Z9?highlight=spotify:track:2TXfz2qgVymWWVraZYPNs6">Twin Rocks, Oregon</a></i>.)</p><p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/williamtopley">William Topley</a> (We've seen him countless times in Portland. I hope to see him play live at a pub in London some day). </p><p><br /></p><p><b>Favorite Outdoor Venues </b>(<b>Bend/Sunriver Area</b>):</p><p><a href="https://www.cascadelakes.com/events-calendar">Bend Brewing</a> (great nachos!)</p><p><a href="https://www.bendcider.com/events">Bend Cider Co.</a> (in Tumalo)</p><p><a href="https://www.thebitetumalo.com/live/">(the) Bite</a> (in Tumalo)</p><p><a href="https://www.bunkandbrew.com/the-yard/">Bunk and Brew</a> (Funky, youthful vibe. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bunkandbrew/events/?ref=page_internal">Event schedule on FB</a>.)</p><p><a href="https://bendconcerts.com/">Hayden Homes Amphitheater</a>e (for bigger shows)</p><p><a href="https://www.ontapbend.com/calendar/events">On Tap</a> (They have an especially great beer and cider selection.)</p><p><a href="https://www.riversplacebend.com/live-music">River's Place</a> (They typically have live music on Thursday and Sunday evenings.)</p><p><a href="https://www.silvermoonbrewing.com/events">Silver Moon Brewing</a> (They have the most excellent fire pits!)</p><p><a href="https://www.worthybrewing.com/">Worthy</a> (A gorgeous outdoor stage. Also has a "<a href="https://worthy.beer/bend-oregon-observatory/">hopservatory</a>" star gazing spot.)</p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>Favorite Indoor Venues </b>(<b>Bend/Sunriver Area</b>):</p><p><a href="https://www.mcmenamins.com/old-st-francis-school">Old St. Francis School</a> (Additional schedule info on the <a href="https://www.mcmenamins.com/to-do/live-music-events">main McMenamins site</a>)</p><p><br /></p><p><b>Some places on our list to try: </b></p><p><a href="https://www.blacksmithpublichouse.com/events">Blacksmith Public House</a> (in Redmond)</p><p><a href="https://boneyardbeer.com/events/">Boneyard Beer</a> (in Bend)</p><p><a href="https://www.cascadelakes.com/events-calendar">Cascade Lakes</a> (Two locations in Bend)</p><p><a href="https://crosscutbeer.com/">Crosscut</a> (in Bend)</p><p><a href="https://www.legendcider.com/events-1">Legend NW Cider Company</a> (in LaPine)</p><p><a href="https://www.villageatsunriver.com/events/">The Village </a>(in Sunriver) -- hosts summer music events</p><p><a href="https://wetlandslapine.com/events/">Wetlands Tap House</a> (in LaPine)</p><p><br /></p><p><a href="https://www.bandsintown.com/c/bend-or">Bands in Town - Bend</a></p><p><a href="https://www.bendsource.com/bend/EventSearch?v=g">Bend's Source Weekly Calendar</a></p><p><br /></p><p><b>Favorite Outdoor Venues </b>(<b>Portland Area</b>):</p><p><a href="https://topazfarm.com/live-music">Topaz Farm</a> on Sauvie Island (Family friendly, very welcoming, and beautiful setting.)</p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjuPO59eEr2mmbyy_1WsJxGFj_sdggl1OmRQ452VfW1WCAO_C4ZiYrPHhgWNLqqnkSMHr4Mr_Q6tHBYOvzQaXdsoo9_3hhutbIB1hr2cUbFcEVUEvRXik6zLl5VPGMiyj6ht5TGNI0GfAAQ4V6QcKoG0Mv9Ho_iMtPvJcMPAbsOQLnzjsfpDacXt2tgAQ" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjuPO59eEr2mmbyy_1WsJxGFj_sdggl1OmRQ452VfW1WCAO_C4ZiYrPHhgWNLqqnkSMHr4Mr_Q6tHBYOvzQaXdsoo9_3hhutbIB1hr2cUbFcEVUEvRXik6zLl5VPGMiyj6ht5TGNI0GfAAQ4V6QcKoG0Mv9Ho_iMtPvJcMPAbsOQLnzjsfpDacXt2tgAQ=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Listening to <a href="https://www.portlandcelloproject.com/pages/calendar">The Portland Cello Project</a> Playing Prince Music at <a href="https://topazfarm.com/">Topaz Farm</a><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p></p><p><br /></p><p><b>Favorite Indoor Venues </b>(<b>Portland Area</b>):</p><p><a href="https://www.mcmenamins.com/crystal-hotel/als-den/events/events">Al's Den</a></p><p><a href="https://www.aladdin-theater.com/#shows-feed">Aladdin Theatre</a></p><p><a href="https://albertarosetheatre.com/calendar/">Alberta Rose Theatre</a></p><p><a href="https://www.albertastreetpub.com/">Alberta Street Pub</a></p><p><a href="https://www.theoldchurch.org/all-events">The Old Church</a></p><p><a href="https://muddyrudderpdx.com/music-schedule/">The Muddy Rudder Public House</a> (A great neighborhood place, with excellent food and service, too!)</p><p><a href="https://polarishall.com/">Polaris Hall</a></p><p><br /></p><p><b>Some Places We'd Like to Try (Portland Area):</b></p><p><a href="https://www.hopsontap-pdx.com/events">Hops on Tap</a></p><p><br /></p><p><a href="https://www.bandsintown.com/c/portland-or">Bands in Town - Portland </a></p><p><br /></p><p>Bookmark this page and check back often; I'll keep this page updated as my list of favorites changes and grows! </p><p>Last revised: March 9, 2024 </p>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-41504400147555115932022-06-29T07:30:00.000-07:002022-06-29T07:30:00.187-07:00Birth Stories for Books: IF THERE NEVER WAS A YOU, by Amanda Rowe<p>Hello readers! I have another inspiring story to share with you in today's edition of <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a>. My guest is <a href="https://www.amandarowewrites.com/">Amanda Rowe</a>, author of <a href="https://bookshop.org/books/if-there-never-was-a-you/9781641701112">IF THERE NEVER WAS A YOU</a> (illustrated by <a href="https://childrensillustrators.com/OlgaSkomorokhova/portfolio">Olga Skomorokhova</a>, <a href="https://www.familius.com/book/if-there-never-was-a-you/">Familius</a>, 2019.) </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjXrMHg88xeczfqLWeHrbGavzWquX3cciuFechFU3WXPBrjLcj32VCV1CkvKPPkJKOqpB3LmdkiEy6vJKUcXgYkR_DFtqnXaHS43kVx2Se2VhVh3JICwI6UEoMrchJGogUfpTgV_hslQfD2pf53l_fyJ7BvyjB4Pz5D3R4e81-ORafmirQg5W1Ad4KOYA=s500" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjXrMHg88xeczfqLWeHrbGavzWquX3cciuFechFU3WXPBrjLcj32VCV1CkvKPPkJKOqpB3LmdkiEy6vJKUcXgYkR_DFtqnXaHS43kVx2Se2VhVh3JICwI6UEoMrchJGogUfpTgV_hslQfD2pf53l_fyJ7BvyjB4Pz5D3R4e81-ORafmirQg5W1Ad4KOYA=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">By <a href="https://www.amandarowewrites.com/">Amanda Rowe</a> and <a href="https://childrensillustrators.com/OlgaSkomorokhova/portfolio">Olga Skomorokhova</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>Dawn Prochovnic: Welcome to the blog, Amanda. Today we get to celebrate the recent Book Birthday for IF THERE NEVER WAS A YOU. </b></p><p><b>You shared some of what inspired you to write this story in an earlier interview with <a href="http://readandshine.com/2019/03/19/author-interview-amanda-rowe-author-of-if-there-never-was-a-you/">Read and Shine</a>, but I wonder if you could recap some of that again for us here?</b></p><p><b>Amanda Rowe</b>: I initially wrote <i>If There Never Was a You</i> as a poem for my children. Since I was a child, I have made greeting cards, and sometimes I write a poem for my children’s birthdays or other special occasions. I wrote down these thoughts and feelings about my kids for them – it wasn’t until later that I considered the possibility of it becoming a children’s book.</p><p><b>DP: What a beautiful backstory. It makes your book even more special.</b></p><p><b>Reflecting on the journey from idea to published book, is there any one moment along the way that you credit with opening the door for this particular story to find its way to publication? </b></p><p><b>AR</b>: Yes, when I reread <i>If There Never Was a You</i> and realized that the feelings are universal. I wrote it because I wanted to convey to my kids what their presence in my life meant to me. After giving it some thought, I realized that other parents might want to express these feelings to their children, but they might lack the words. Not everyone is a writer. So, I thought, what if there was a way that I could make this piece available for other caregivers to share with their children? I could imagine parents, or even aunts, uncles, or grandparents reading this to their favorite tiny people, and I thought a children’s book might be an appropriate medium for this message. So, I submitted it.</p><p><b>DP: Fantastic! </b></p><p><b>When you compare the path to publication for this book to the paths to publication for some of your poems and/or non-fiction articles, what are some of the key similarities and differences in terms of the publication journeys for each?</b></p><p><b>AR</b>: In my experience, non-fiction articles are easy to sell. They are factual information, so it’s just a matter of finding someone interested in that subject matter to pitch it to. Poems and fiction have a harder time finding homes because they have to resonate emotionally with their audience. You have to find someone who understands the sentiment and wants to take that journey. And getting a book deal is more difficult than other forms of publication because it is about much more than likability or even the execution. You can have the most well-written, touching story, but if the publisher can’t market it or it isn’t a good fit for their list (which could happen for many reasons), they could love it and still pass on it. Writing can be a soul-crushing business that way. Every time I get offered a publishing contract, I consider it a miracle.</p><p><b>DP: A hard-earned miracle, I'd say! </b></p><p><b>Your bio mentions that you edited <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Genome-Factor-Genomics-Revolution-Ourselves/dp/0691164746/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2THDVNJ1RDVPN&keywords=the+genome+factor&qid=1644987780&sprefix=the+genome+factor%2Caps%2C118&sr=8-1"><i>The Genome Factor</i></a>. Based on your experience on both sides of the table, author and editor, what professional advice or suggestions do you have to offer to aspiring authors? </b></p><p><b>AR</b>: No matter what you’re writing, it is vital to have a fresh set of eyes on your work – someone else to point out flaws, whether big picture issues, typos, or grammatical errors. Tackle the big picture issues first – plot, story arc, characters (or flow or fact-checking for non-fiction) – and once you’ve got your narrative finalized, you do the line-by-line edits for typos and grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, etc. Every step of the way, it helps to have someone else read your work and provide feedback – someone who will feel comfortable offering constructive criticism and pointing out your mistakes. It can be awkward, but it’s much less embarrassing to have your editor (or a friend) point out errors and fix them pre-publication than to see your mistakes in print for the rest of your life.</p><p><b>DP. Excellent advice! </b></p><p><b>Speaking of advice, one of my favorite parts of being an author is connecting with young readers at school, library, and bookstore visits, and I’m always looking for new pro tips. <a href="https://www.amandarowewrites.com/tour">Your website</a> showcases an active outreach to young readers at a wide variety of venues. Based on this experience, what professional advice or suggestions do you have for fellow author/presenters in terms of planning successful (in-person and/or remote) events?</b></p><p><b>AR</b>: For me, the key to successful events is connection. I connect with readers by being my authentic self and allowing them a glimpse of the person behind the job title – by simply being Amanda instead of ‘the author.’ Like so many of my readers, I’m a mom. I’m an employee; I am a person who makes mistakes and tries to do better. And I used to be a little kid with big dreams. </p><p>To connect with my audience, I tap into those similarities; I try to let down my guard and have a real conversation. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiRA0SV13hk_vTW3czvuFnbCaneoGLTctci5qFawLQl8MKeI_ASweWnKARCtxe3m_mWEwFrJxoS1Aeuf4sKtaAhtI81JI6MZxAapncN_ok7ANK8CYXUt9DZyd23qMbQ1ec7VGdgoTXj66UMDFK_BkF4QgW6nGkOZsuWmNCAmdYulsJttJdFv9pwfQvL6A=s4032" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiRA0SV13hk_vTW3czvuFnbCaneoGLTctci5qFawLQl8MKeI_ASweWnKARCtxe3m_mWEwFrJxoS1Aeuf4sKtaAhtI81JI6MZxAapncN_ok7ANK8CYXUt9DZyd23qMbQ1ec7VGdgoTXj66UMDFK_BkF4QgW6nGkOZsuWmNCAmdYulsJttJdFv9pwfQvL6A=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhy35aE8uh6Q_irbLg4VgAbrl5Jyau3ud6yXv6izCVMFYYJWtrTWtJquoGqfcBl6PpZJES5Ax_qq57t0d8dbx_tki7HnMoIjm0Tqo9UzY-w0ICdS4ipCqHenqLCCpDs3gw7a8rli44qU7Dfn53sJibs7iYRR6txPG6EI8tlp73chd94f0YT1UzsWf4qAw=s2400" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2400" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhy35aE8uh6Q_irbLg4VgAbrl5Jyau3ud6yXv6izCVMFYYJWtrTWtJquoGqfcBl6PpZJES5Ax_qq57t0d8dbx_tki7HnMoIjm0Tqo9UzY-w0ICdS4ipCqHenqLCCpDs3gw7a8rli44qU7Dfn53sJibs7iYRR6txPG6EI8tlp73chd94f0YT1UzsWf4qAw=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Source: <a href="https://www.amandarowewrites.com/">Amanda Rowe</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p>That’s what I miss most about my book tour – meeting new people and having conversations with them about our lives – our hopes, our fears, our disappointments. When I talk to children, I focus on hopes and dreams – what are their talents? How do they want to use them? What do they hope to do or to be one day? I ask those questions with adults, too, but I frame the conversation with more of an “it’s not too late” perspective. I explain to them that I put my dreams on hold for many years to raise my kids, get a job, and survive, but they were always there in the background. Eventually, I was able to carve out time to start pursuing them again. I like to encourage adults and children to keep dreaming, setting goals, and considering what is possible. Because anything is possible if you want it enough, and you’re willing to work for it. I think the key to success isn’t talent – it’s tenacity. You can learn skills and study and hone your craft, but if you don’t want it enough, you’ll never get anywhere, no matter how talented you are. </p><p>Having those kinds of heart-to-heart conversations is what makes the most memorable events. And also, stickers! If you’re a children’s book author, get some stickers with your book cover on them. Kids love stickers, and they stick them to their clothes or their backpack, and then when they get home, they are reminded of your book again – and so are their parents.</p><p><b>DP: I love your heartfelt and authentic approach, Amanda. (And, I couldn't agree more on the stickers! <a href="https://www.stickermule.com/">Stickermule</a> is my favorite source.)</b></p><p><b>In addition to authoring and promoting your book and other freelance projects, working your day job, and raising children (which has included navigating some serious health challenges), you also maintain a lifelong commitment to giving and volunteerism. How do you balance the time between your different writing projects and the different aspects of the publishing business alongside an active work and home life?</b></p><p><b>AR</b>: It’s all about priorities. My kids come first. Now that they are older and more independent, they take up less time, which frees up some time for my writing career.</p><p>Because I have a full-time day job, I can only work on my writing career on nights, weekends, holidays, or vacation days. So, I do. I can’t tell you how many sunny days I’ve spent indoors hunched over my keyboard; how many invitations I’ve turned down; how many early mornings or lunch breaks I’ve spent writing. Progress requires sacrifice. If you want something, you have to give something else up. </p><p>I am an introvert by nature, so giving up social engagements hasn’t been a problem for me, but I don’t spend as much time with my friends and extended family as I would like to. Also, there are many weekends when I’d love to read a book or take a day trip, but I write, edit, submit, or work on my social media instead. I am planting seeds, and hopefully one day, the harvest will come, and I won’t have to work quite as much. But I’m not there yet, so discipline is the key.</p><p><b>DP: Thanks for this unvarnished perspective, Amanda.</b></p><p><b>If you could go back in time, what would you tell your pre-published self? Or, said another way, what do you know now, that you wished you would have known a bit earlier?</b></p><p><b>AR</b>: I wish I had understood sooner that being an author is like being a small business owner. As with any business, there are expenses and practical matters that need to be dealt with. I imagined the author’s life as all about art and creativity, and there is some of that. But the part that I love – the writing – is the smallest piece of the puzzle. I spend much more time on the business end of things – doing things that I never wanted to do that I don't enjoy, but that are necessary if I want to make progress. It is hard to get a book deal; it is even harder to get an agent. There is so much time spent on submitting, negotiating, social media and promotion. If you’re successful, maybe later on you can afford to hire someone to handle your social media, and you have an agent to submit things and negotiate contracts on your behalf. But in the beginning, you have to manage all of those things yourself – in addition to your everyday responsibilities like housework, raising children and working a full-time job. It’s exhausting and often you are spending more money than you are making.</p><p>However, not all is lost. Although being a children's book author has not been financially profitable for me so far, I have gained something worth more to me than money – purpose. If I can offer hope to a struggling parent, make a child believe in themselves, help caregivers express their love for their little ones or help families make memories together, then everything I’ve sacrificed will be worth it.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiVGAj2aUbbRn3eJPFvmVjJS4wsKXJ2o1XU03P3CvyOZgWiOPV_yEaOknCBig3crJquN-5BesDsqIo3627zTCbsNhZB1_ptGl2rqzTEApu_d7fX14lTNkoJ98x48oI0d5mO72mLmq9nPQ5ovDvvsSmOgxQjS0HgKdXko5arl-mkn_OkSztE9b-2id6ptg=s4032" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiVGAj2aUbbRn3eJPFvmVjJS4wsKXJ2o1XU03P3CvyOZgWiOPV_yEaOknCBig3crJquN-5BesDsqIo3627zTCbsNhZB1_ptGl2rqzTEApu_d7fX14lTNkoJ98x48oI0d5mO72mLmq9nPQ5ovDvvsSmOgxQjS0HgKdXko5arl-mkn_OkSztE9b-2id6ptg=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEghLA4ZiQ_vzjs3dh0I3tEri8XgSNStUMPSp9Plx3qnmn4f010uF3tWHfqWfChYoykHHr7ZMhKQqBfybkEqdQX7L1x3vTRr_cv_bZLmBByTBXJSu9xAT8ar5OcOVZ_J8ErNpmruz-IDwy_PyE9w8Yzt-xOE5BoCKB5ixASLgh_gMDOXHE7Q27yr6pkK5g=s4032" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEghLA4ZiQ_vzjs3dh0I3tEri8XgSNStUMPSp9Plx3qnmn4f010uF3tWHfqWfChYoykHHr7ZMhKQqBfybkEqdQX7L1x3vTRr_cv_bZLmBByTBXJSu9xAT8ar5OcOVZ_J8ErNpmruz-IDwy_PyE9w8Yzt-xOE5BoCKB5ixASLgh_gMDOXHE7Q27yr6pkK5g=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Source: <a href="https://www.amandarowewrites.com/">Amanda Rowe</a></td></tr></tbody></table><b><br /></b><p></p><p><b>DP: I'll bet your book has brought many special moments for your readers.</b></p><p><b>Is there something you wish someone would ask you about your path to publication for IF THERE NEVER WAS A YOU that you haven’t had the opportunity to share yet? </b></p><p><b>AR</b>: I have mentioned in a few interviews that this book got picked up quickly by a publisher, and I didn’t write it intending it to be a book, so my becoming a children’s book author was unexpected. That might give people the impression that this has been easy; that is incorrect. I have been writing since I was seven years old in one form or another. I have tried and failed to have hundreds of pieces published, and I experimented with various genres of writing before becoming a children’s book author. I have also tried numerous writing methods and found that when I try to write like other people do, I get frustrated and feel like a failure. But when I write my way, I feel like I’m where I belong, doing what I am supposed to be doing. I think that’s when great art happens – when the artist allows the work to flow through them instead of trying to force it to be how they envisioned it. So often, the things I try to force do not work, and the things that I don’t plan take on a life of their own and end up being more well-received than I imagined. That doesn’t mean that I don’t need to study the craft of writing and improve my skills; I do. But I need to apply those lessons to using my voice, my way.</p><p>So, what I’ve learned is this: if you love doing something, keep doing it. If you’re not successful with it, try an alternate route. Sometimes you have to flail about a bit before you find your niche. But make sure you are using your gifts and not trying to mimic someone else’s, because that never ends well.</p><p>Life rarely works out the way we plan, but sometimes it works out better. When you let go of the way you imagined things should be, you open the door to infinite possibilities of what they could be.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhHh5dXLrDTO7wvP2g2jrDUJCG3zbugeS6aKP0zfxdO4RiPPUwQmraIyHK8hiKQJS8d4yOSH--naQrbRSUjYAJpkvCJNaLs_BMW4KT0UwTYGO3w_WW6dle0BugRb07G55-GUOFfQ72-iAsrw_rrOzXwPQkZmDg5pqR9qRk-JeIIxhUalqICuZzNnRVNYQ=s4032" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhHh5dXLrDTO7wvP2g2jrDUJCG3zbugeS6aKP0zfxdO4RiPPUwQmraIyHK8hiKQJS8d4yOSH--naQrbRSUjYAJpkvCJNaLs_BMW4KT0UwTYGO3w_WW6dle0BugRb07G55-GUOFfQ72-iAsrw_rrOzXwPQkZmDg5pqR9qRk-JeIIxhUalqICuZzNnRVNYQ=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image Source: <a href="https://www.amandarowewrites.com/">Amanda Rowe</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>DP: This is such a powerful perspective, Amanda. Thank you so much for sharing. </b></p><p><b>Do you have anything you’d like to tell us about what you’re currently working on? </b></p><p><b>AR</b>: I am working on multiple projects right now which is not unusual for me. I am always in the middle of reading – and writing – at least three books. The project currently closest to my heart is a book that I’ve written for chronically ill children. As the parent of a child with a debilitating disease I’ve spent countless hours at hospitals and doctors’ offices. I’ve met so many other families like ours, and I want to offer them encouragement. I want to make them feel seen and understood so I wrote a book that I hope will be in hospitals and doctors’ offices someday to brighten the lives of chronically ill children and their families. Also, to express gratitude for healthcare workers, who have my utmost respect and appreciation.</p><p><b>DP: I look forward to news of that project coming to fruition some day. It sounds like a much needed and meaningful book. </b></p><p><b>Thank you so much for sharing your Birth Story for IF THERE NEVER WAS A YOU with us, Amanda! It's been great to have you on the blog.</b></p><p><b>AR</b>: Thank you for having me, Dawn, and for working so hard to promote your fellow authors. I appreciate the opportunity to connect with you and your readers.</p><p><b>Friends, I've said it before, and I'll say it again: the best way to thank an author whose insights and information have been helpful and/or intriguing to you is to support their work. Buy their books. Request them from your library. Read and share them with others. <a href="https://www.familius.com/book/if-there-never-was-a-you/">IF THERE NEVER WAS A YOU</a> is available <a href="https://bookshop.org/books/if-there-never-was-a-you/9781641701112">everywhere books are sold</a>. </b></p><p>********** </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgnCVSTLDDUzmB7lUQUu8TMUwywXQyblZ1J5sQAc1hkuxWWeRpB6kyLf3PFMdr7VJtmXeso39BGH9YrbMUaQpj0pS6QyQkoi47zt4_SX_QxLrnWh0f4u1SbMlAbKtC5k0juKF3BGk8eC7uHdIBpVp9nOOYfrAxZ7Osft7ArIA682Z81GLDV7V1BNaWjcg=s3838" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3838" data-original-width="3838" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgnCVSTLDDUzmB7lUQUu8TMUwywXQyblZ1J5sQAc1hkuxWWeRpB6kyLf3PFMdr7VJtmXeso39BGH9YrbMUaQpj0pS6QyQkoi47zt4_SX_QxLrnWh0f4u1SbMlAbKtC5k0juKF3BGk8eC7uHdIBpVp9nOOYfrAxZ7Osft7ArIA682Z81GLDV7V1BNaWjcg=s320" width="320" /></a></div><p>Amanda Rowe is a children’s book author, an academic administrator, an amateur chef, a travel enthusiast, a blogger, and a book hoarder. <i>If There Never Was a You</i> is her first children’s book. Her next children's book, <i>There Goes My Heart</i>, is forthcoming with Familius in 2024. Visit her at <a href="https://amandarowewrites.squarespace.com/">https://amandarowewrites.squarespace.com/</a>. </p><p></p><p><br /></p><p>**********</p><p><a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a> is an occasional feature of Dawn Babb Prochovnic's blog. Dawn is the author of multiple picture books including, <i>Lucy's Blooms</i>, <i>Where Does a Cowgirl Go Potty?</i>, <i>Where Does a Pirate Go Potty?</i>, and 16 books in the <i>Story Time With Signs & Rhymes</i> series. Dawn is a contributing author to the award-winning book, <i>Oregon Reads Aloud</i>, and a frequent presenter at schools, libraries, and educational conferences. Contact Dawn using the form at the left, or learn more at <a href="http://www.dawnprochovnic.com">www.dawnprochovnic.com</a>. </p><div><br /></div>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-15224220701043807592022-06-22T10:20:00.001-07:002022-06-22T10:20:32.039-07:00The "Showcases, Media Coverage, and Shout-Outs" Part of the Writing Life<p>I'm not gonna lie...it feels good when my creative work receives positive recognition—or even just a little press! In fact, I keep a running list of media coverage, <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Yi1Bb2NhOPLAkRrMPWxeFIuxXk2Gi9Jk5C9UR5NFt5w/edit?usp=sharing">here</a>. It's a nice page to stroll through on the days I need a pick-me-up. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSUxxRNuuBY7xogkf5QsV8K-JqS7D8XZwEzBzzI3KKWuWjA5pzYKvHdHN8VHffa7b2IjO5jNWMXr_CmdaoRVZmDkcC0mhYP06DbVzIYOjIpn_ZRquQkTjbwfCUWPd0DTA0Itrh76LNA0-dCzHDVc0oYayaxPrxHUKOpRL8ulVxNSRy0mrykKpeVwgcJw/s1080/Dawn%20Babb%20Prochovnic%20with%20Lucy's%20Blooms.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSUxxRNuuBY7xogkf5QsV8K-JqS7D8XZwEzBzzI3KKWuWjA5pzYKvHdHN8VHffa7b2IjO5jNWMXr_CmdaoRVZmDkcC0mhYP06DbVzIYOjIpn_ZRquQkTjbwfCUWPd0DTA0Itrh76LNA0-dCzHDVc0oYayaxPrxHUKOpRL8ulVxNSRy0mrykKpeVwgcJw/s320/Dawn%20Babb%20Prochovnic%20with%20Lucy's%20Blooms.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Some recent media highlights include my <i><a href="https://abdobooks.com/series/457-story-time-with-signs-rhymes">Story Time with Signs & Rhymes</a></i> series being included in a <a href="https://bookriot.com/sign-language-books-for-toddlers/">Book Riot round-up of books about sign language</a> for toddlers, and my hometown newspaper including <i>Lucy's Blooms</i> in a <a href="https://www.hereisoregon.com/people/2022/02/catch-up-with-these-10-picture-books-by-oregon-authors-and-illustrators.html">roundup of children's books by Oregon authors</a>.</p><p>Today I learned that the <a href="https://www.cbcbooks.org/">Children's Book Council</a> included <i><a href="https://www.westmarginpress.com/book-details/9781513267197/lucys-blooms/">Lucy's Blooms</a></i> (illustrated by <a href="https://www.pickledalice.com/pickledaliceart">Alice Brereton</a>, published by <a href="https://www.westmarginpress.com/search/?q=prochonvic">West Margin Press</a>) in their <a href="https://www.cbcbooks.org/cbc-book-lists/love-makes-the-world-go-round-summer-2022/">#LoveMakesTheWorldGoRound</a> summer showcase. I'm quite delighted that this book of my heart has been included in such an esteemed list! I hope you'll check it out. (While you're there, take note of two other books in particular: <i>Made for Me</i> and <i>The Proudest Color</i>, two fantastic books published by <a href="https://www.familius.com/">Familius</a>, the publisher of my next scheduled book.)</p><p>If you're not familiar with <i>Lucy's Blooms,</i> you can view/listen to the <a href="https://youtu.be/csoF_xhUTuI">book trailer here</a> (with original music written and performed by <a href="https://www.maiahwynne.com/">Maiah Wynne</a>, the lead vocalist for <a href="https://alexlifeson.com/">Alex Lifeson</a>'s new band, <a href="https://envyofnone.com/">Envy of None</a>): </p><p><br /></p><p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/csoF_xhUTuI" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe> </p><p><br /></p><p>and you can view the book reading I recorded for my book launch <a href="https://youtu.be/ZHKMqFfniAI">here</a>:</p><p><br /></p><p>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZHKMqFfniAI" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe> </p><p><i>Lucy's Blooms</i> is available wherever books are sold. You can support my creative work (and your local indie bookseller) without leaving the comfort of your home by purchasing your books through <a href="https://bookshop.org/books?keywords=prochovnic">Bookshop</a>. </p><p>Thanks for celebrating with me! </p>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-2041075532952077632022-06-15T08:00:00.011-07:002022-06-15T08:00:00.227-07:00Birth Stories for Books: THE THREE LITTLE SPRIGS, by Terry Ann Marsh<p>Hello readers! It's time to dig into another path to publication story in the latest edition of <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a>. Today's guest is <a href="https://www.writerlywords.org/about">Terry Ann Marsh</a>, author of <a href="https://bookshop.org/books/the-three-little-sprigs/9781951565688">THE THREE LITTLE SPRIGS</a> (illustrated by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lintangpanduillustration/">Lintang Pandu Pratiwi</a>, published by <a href="http://www.belleislebooks.com/store/p195/The_Three_Little_Sprigs.html">Brandylane Publishers/Belle Isle Books</a>, July 2022.) </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi8hv_zufbBQFq6UQas00oc7AayQw-RroFyXr8wPiRwYbJuKVI5NUA94X-a9zqJwFFASeXtaJ1ECl3iURBJDwN325TT0fUfo44nAav4rLHJR3frME4kqIushT1PeR1gK9kmHFlM3HH-u3uvKKrM72vymhF2GNWC3jKt_Gjpo8gFu2ZB6fhO3ULnBaXt8w=s902" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="845" data-original-width="902" height="375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi8hv_zufbBQFq6UQas00oc7AayQw-RroFyXr8wPiRwYbJuKVI5NUA94X-a9zqJwFFASeXtaJ1ECl3iURBJDwN325TT0fUfo44nAav4rLHJR3frME4kqIushT1PeR1gK9kmHFlM3HH-u3uvKKrM72vymhF2GNWC3jKt_Gjpo8gFu2ZB6fhO3ULnBaXt8w=w400-h375" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">by <a href="https://www.writerlywords.org/about">Terry Ann Marsh</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lintangpanduillustration/">Lintang Pandu Pratiwi</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>Dawn Prochovnic: Welcome to the blog, Terry. I’ve enjoyed reading about your publishing journey for your debut picture book, THE THREE LITTLE SPRIGS, on <a href="https://www.writerlywords.org/">your blog</a>, and I’m delighted to be able to ask some specific questions about your experience here. </b></p><p><b>Your <a href="https://www.writerlywords.org/about">online bio</a> indicates that you’ve spent decades singing and performing for adults and kids, and that you’ve “put down the mic and picked up the pen,” transforming stories and songs from your children’s shows into submittable manuscripts. Can you share with us how the idea for this particular story originally came to be?</b></p><p><b>Terry Ann Marsh</b>: I’d love to -- and thanks so much for inviting me to be a part of your blog!</p><p>I was contemplating the concept of fractured fairy tales, wondering if there was a fairy tale that would work for me. As an entertainer, I was always on the lookout for ideas that would not only be entertaining, but could also be used by a parent or teacher as a jumping off point for a conversation on a kid-friendly theme. I probably thought about it for a few months, and then one day I asked the big question: What if instead of using straw, wood and brick to build their houses, the three little pigs had to use a character trait to build their house. And so, <i>The Three Little Sprigs</i> who live in the Woodland Kingdom was born.</p><p><b>DP: What a fun backstory and concept for a children's book. </b></p><p><b>I’d also like to hear more about the process and timeframe between your initial idea for this book and the manuscript that was formulated fully enough to submit to an editor.</b></p><p><b>TAM</b>: What a good question! I had to go back and find my original manuscript to see how long it’s been. This story took about 3 years to develop completely. I tend to really think about stories for a while before I actually start writing them, but I would have to count that as part of the process. It also went through a couple of critique groups. I think the idea of the story appealed to everyone, but it is longer than your average picture book today, so that posed a bit of a problem. I was getting a little discouraged until I talked to an author at a <a href="https://www.scbwi.org/">SCBWI</a> conference, who said I should submit it as picture storybook, which would allow for more words (it clocks in at 1800 words!) Happily, her advice worked.</p><p><b>DP: Sometimes all we need is that one new idea to help a story along!</b></p><p><b>When you compare one of your earliest drafts of this story to the version in the published book, what stands out for you in terms of what is most different? Likewise, is there anything in particular that stands out that was included in your earliest drafts and survived the revision process?</b></p><p><b>TAM</b>: My earlier manuscript had more descriptive scenes in it because I was in love with the idea of this Woodland Kingdom where everything came alive. Toadstool caps used as sleds, dandelion heads that hung in windows as curtains, daisy blankets that hugged you back -- so much fun! But the word count needed to come down. Some scenes didn’t survive and some became illustrations.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgMwwKvdRz-l5msP4y-ORxuyx6n2nS6FEqbWdejLNkM8LRYa3XxmBBoDILF6HR7Dz-9ECgnRf305n08M9ogjq03x2aLJHpuZtYEaLbWQ8I_-WrRnSMdgyURtoM2oWhVMaFkNZf3vtLWZH33pklHgk3O9lPVykhCuWDZWCzVXIl-pjzX2Eg-NX7laqarqQ=s1846" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1846" data-original-width="1318" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgMwwKvdRz-l5msP4y-ORxuyx6n2nS6FEqbWdejLNkM8LRYa3XxmBBoDILF6HR7Dz-9ECgnRf305n08M9ogjq03x2aLJHpuZtYEaLbWQ8I_-WrRnSMdgyURtoM2oWhVMaFkNZf3vtLWZH33pklHgk3O9lPVykhCuWDZWCzVXIl-pjzX2Eg-NX7laqarqQ=w285-h400" width="285" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiCgcoyd65Ngh2wTyD4zShAMzv08hGuZBVuynER-Ot_WxjvRNmglcORywHHEc67ci1qgZzNU0-6j0EFHujCoPv3cQBsSD-VslXDl5nRBVC8imvhYNBCNPKL9ig6wuZ6b6d1NXKpQz6j5nqKhD5_PRVdr8Z8-JBPrHCt5-wgf88ceSdsvbzHQKHs_3FQVg=s3604" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3604" data-original-width="2549" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiCgcoyd65Ngh2wTyD4zShAMzv08hGuZBVuynER-Ot_WxjvRNmglcORywHHEc67ci1qgZzNU0-6j0EFHujCoPv3cQBsSD-VslXDl5nRBVC8imvhYNBCNPKL9ig6wuZ6b6d1NXKpQz6j5nqKhD5_PRVdr8Z8-JBPrHCt5-wgf88ceSdsvbzHQKHs_3FQVg=w283-h400" width="283" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Illustrations by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lintangpanduillustration/" style="text-align: left;">Lintang Pandu Pratiwi</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Since it’s longer than most books in the market today, I was grateful that <a href="https://www.brandylanepublishers.com/product-category/childrens-books/">Brandylane Publishers</a> allowed the story to develop completely. <i>The Three Little Sprigs</i> follows the timeline of the <i>Three Little Pigs</i> fairly closely. Instead of the Big Bad Wolf, there are Stinging Rain and Lonely Wind, who visit each house and try to blow them down, but all that takes time and words to develop. I was glad I didn’t feel the need to shorten or rush the story. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjzcFx0TYoHHqLZuPLRiynJUXfSePFVydUATO8bF6L-22jDOCUrzXpcMa1auKz02cJ4zbHZLRaC_4d3al_Mo2_1xaB7ZN0SXsqehIi7XVF6DWby1izYfCb092OjarEl3XL7Uw8CpErpa1-BZUHUo1Rn2FXfS12cCgnrfYDlSKQu3bb2kQZj2V8OqzwD-A=s2549" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1846" data-original-width="2549" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjzcFx0TYoHHqLZuPLRiynJUXfSePFVydUATO8bF6L-22jDOCUrzXpcMa1auKz02cJ4zbHZLRaC_4d3al_Mo2_1xaB7ZN0SXsqehIi7XVF6DWby1izYfCb092OjarEl3XL7Uw8CpErpa1-BZUHUo1Rn2FXfS12cCgnrfYDlSKQu3bb2kQZj2V8OqzwD-A=w400-h290" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Illustration by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lintangpanduillustration/" style="text-align: left;">Lintang Pandu Pratiwi</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>DP: How great that you found a publisher that shared your vision for this story. </b></p><p><b>Reflecting on the journey from idea to published book, is there any one moment along the way that you credit with opening the door for this particular story to find its way to publication? </b></p><p><b>TAM</b>: The writer at the SCBWI conference who told me about the picture storybook form was very helpful. She loved the book and that encouraged me to keep going with a story that I loved.</p><p><b>DP: That's terrific. One of my favorite parts of this business is the wonderful people I've met throughout my journey and the encouragement I've received (and continue to receive) from others along the way. </b></p><p><b>Another favorite part is connecting with young readers at school, library, and bookstore visits, and I’m always looking for new pro tips. Based on your years of experience performing for adults and kids, what professional advice or suggestions do you have for fellow author/presenters in terms of planning successful events? </b></p><p><b>TAM</b>: My number one rule for entertaining — don’t be boring! Have more than enough material, so there are no long pauses, or gaps in your presentation. When people get nervous they tend to speak fast, so your 10 minutes of material might end up being 5! Have plenty to say, sing, act out or do.</p><p>Kids love to interact, so give them plenty to do, if possible. It’s better to say that you didn’t use all the stuff you brought, than to say you didn’t bring enough (learned that the hard way!).</p><p><b>DP: Great tips! I'll bet your events are loads of fun! </b></p><p><b>Speaking of events, it’s clear that you and I share a preference for in-person events over virtual, but given that your book will launch in the midst of (a still ongoing!) pandemic, I’d be especially interested in hearing what you have found to be the most effective and meaningful way(s) to connect with young readers and book buyers during this challenging time.</b></p><p><b>TAM</b>: This is the most challenging thing for me. Social media is definitely outside my comfort zone. Fortunately, my youngest daughter is a branding expert, and she will help me, although she assures me I am not ready for Instagram! I give myself props for developing a <a href="https://www.writerlywords.org/">webpage</a>, and getting on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/terryann.marsh.77">Facebook</a>, although I need to be more consistent. If need be, I can jump into the world of video blogs and Zoom meetings, but I am truly hoping that by the time my book comes out (maybe April?), in-person events will be back on. </p><p><b>DP: Gosh, I sure do hope so, Terry! </b></p><p><b>One of my favorite creative experiences has been collaborating with music professionals to create original songs and videos for my picture books (you can view a recent collaboration <a href="https://youtu.be/QbaYebEWTTs">here</a>.) Given your decades of singing experience, do you have any plans for bringing together these two forms of creative expression?</b></p><p><b>TAM</b>: I loved the video for your book — such a great idea!</p><p><b>DP: Thank you! It was such a fun project to work on. </b></p><p><b>TAM</b>: I will definitely use some of my music to enhance my library/school visits. I have a lot of songs that encourage activity, and they are always fun. I don’t have a specific song for <i>Sprigs</i>, but I do have several that I can use that will speak to some of the themes in the book. I also have one song, <i>Kingdom of the Jewels</i>, that I would love to see as a book.</p><p><b>DP: I'll look forward to that project coming to fruition one day, too.</b></p><p><b>If you could go back in time, what would you tell your pre-published self? Or, said another way, what do you know now, that you wished you would have known a bit earlier?</b></p><p><b>TAM</b>: I think I would tell myself not to be discouraged because things don’t, and won’t, happen as quickly as I want them to. Being published is more of a ‘in-it-for-the-long-haul’ process. There’s a lot to learn, so enjoy the process of learning as you go. Also, writing is a very subjective craft. What one person can love, another can hate. So, stay true to what you believe in and what you want to say, and find the best way to say it. </p><p><b>DP: Thanks for that, Terry. That's excellent advice. <span style="white-space: pre;"> </span></b></p><p><b>Is there something you wish someone would ask you about your path to publication for THE THREE LITTLE SPRIGS that you haven’t had the opportunity to share yet?</b> </p><p><b>TAM</b>: Who is the best audience for <i>The Three Little Sprigs</i>? The reason I like this question is because I think the book has much to offer to elementary grades. I have a 4th grade teacher friend who will be using it for her biology science this spring. I make mention of 10 different types of plants found in a forest, and ask 2 good science questions on the teacher page. Also, a book about character traits allows for very teachable moments. The last question on the teacher page is, “If you were to build a house with a character trait, which one would you use?” It can open up great discussions. </p><p><b>DP: What a great response to this question, Terry. I hope your book finds its way into the hands of many young readers. </b></p><p><b>Do you have anything you’d like to tell us about what you’re currently working on? </b></p><p><b>TAM</b>: I am in an advanced writer’s submit/critique cohort with <a href="https://www.scbwi.org/">SCBWI</a>, and I submitted a book about the numbers 10—100. After the first critique last month I realized I had to deconstruct the whole thing and come at it from another angle, which I did! The result has been wonderful. I will continue with this manuscript and see where it will take me. </p><p><b>DP: Best of luck with this new project, Terry, and thanks so much for sharing your Birth Story for THE THREE LITTLE SPRIGS with us!</b></p><p>TAM: Thank you, Dawn. It was fun!</p><p><b>Friends, the best way to thank an author whose insights have been helpful and/or inspiring to you is to support their work. Buy their books. Request them from your library. Read and share them with others. It sounds like <a href="https://bookshop.org/books/the-three-little-sprigs/9781951565688">THE THREE LITTLE SPRIGS</a> would make an excellent addition to school and classroom libraries (and it would be a great complement to LUCY'S BLOOMS if you already have that one on your shelf.) </b></p><p>********** </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg0eRj-lSuXjjDYVHzHLWmMg23K-_rxzQzFbQJFlDv_dFCbs3ALRVV0pebq6KNLA7CM4Z2lv_asF2GP9Ob_-KJBNw_KTmlmqiJn-pPXNSfiIyHdexdumxvZvoWfj-Kz4_2ju-uUrVy8ON-jUisNvJ-zf763a_NXpTroAiwfTholoZGSGHdLaBfwdy4pKA=s4032" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg0eRj-lSuXjjDYVHzHLWmMg23K-_rxzQzFbQJFlDv_dFCbs3ALRVV0pebq6KNLA7CM4Z2lv_asF2GP9Ob_-KJBNw_KTmlmqiJn-pPXNSfiIyHdexdumxvZvoWfj-Kz4_2ju-uUrVy8ON-jUisNvJ-zf763a_NXpTroAiwfTholoZGSGHdLaBfwdy4pKA=s320" width="320" /></a></div>Terry Ann Marsh has been a singer and entertainer for over three decades. She combined Big Band standards, blues, and show tunes in her <i>Showstoppers & Chartoppers!</i> Program. She then went on to write and perform The <i>Music, Movement & ‘Magination Show!</i> a preschool/Kindergarten-level program full of original stories, songs and skits. <br /><p></p><p>Encouraged by the success and positive feedback from her children’s show, Terry began converting the songs and stories from her live performances into book form. Now, instead of acting or singing her characters into existence, she brings them to life in the pages of her books.</p><p>Terry has a great love for theater and has performed in many shows in theaters around Baltimore, including <i>Annie, Fiddler on the Roof</i> and <i>Bye, Bye, Birdie</i>. Eventually, her love of musical theater led her to become a music teacher at Greater Grace Christian Academy, where she directed many theater productions.</p><p>Whether it be through music or her books, Terry is a storyteller at heart. She feels every song or story has a purpose – to encourage, educate and enlighten. </p><p>**********</p><p><a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a> is an occasional feature of Dawn Babb Prochovnic's blog. Dawn is the author of multiple picture books including, <i>Lucy's Blooms</i>, <i>Where Does a Cowgirl Go Potty?</i>, <i>Where Does a Pirate Go Potty?</i>, and 16 books in the <i>Story Time With Signs & Rhymes</i> series. Dawn is a contributing author to the award-winning book, Oregon Reads Aloud, and a frequent presenter at schools, libraries, and educational conferences. Contact Dawn using the form at the left, or learn more at <a href="http://www.dawnprochovnic.com">www.dawnprochovnic.com</a>. </p>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-38531346753651081102022-06-08T08:00:00.011-07:002022-06-08T08:00:00.226-07:00Birth Stories for Books: A FAMILY LOOKS LIKE LOVE, by Kaitlyn Wells<p>Here comes a treat, readers! </p><p>I recently had the opportunity to interview <a href="https://kaitwells.com/">Kaitlyn Wells</a> about her debut picture book, <a href="https://bookshop.org/books/a-family-looks-like-love/9780593403792">A FAMILY LOOKS LIKE LOVE</a>, (illustrated by <a href="https://sawyer.cloud/">Sawyer Cloud</a>, <a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/675687/a-family-looks-like-love-by-kaitlyn-wells-illustrated-by-sawyer-cloud/">Penguin Random House/Flamingo Books</a>, May 31, 2022). Today, I get to share that interview with you.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiThGzjJjgcj03xeZY7_-X1xTK115xQFgWa9axhDDr39xMdOGcFj17lphjuSvFMPh3pN5gpKOIc3pEyukb9pbaVBR4RfrcosUzFCyEoh7rLgQbe_WU_mXTyD0mcT7keoAOPE6uJE-ObH3rlCbDQaScJNoQx7OEXe1kg52EWv6Kz4XfeEPHjVy044zaZvA/s500/A%20Family%20Looks%20Like%20Love%20Cover%209780593403792.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="366" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiThGzjJjgcj03xeZY7_-X1xTK115xQFgWa9axhDDr39xMdOGcFj17lphjuSvFMPh3pN5gpKOIc3pEyukb9pbaVBR4RfrcosUzFCyEoh7rLgQbe_WU_mXTyD0mcT7keoAOPE6uJE-ObH3rlCbDQaScJNoQx7OEXe1kg52EWv6Kz4XfeEPHjVy044zaZvA/w293-h400/A%20Family%20Looks%20Like%20Love%20Cover%209780593403792.jpeg" width="293" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">by <a href="https://kaitwells.com/">Kaitlyn Wells</a> and <a href="https://sawyer.cloud/">Sawyer Cloud</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><b>Dawn Prochovnic: Welcome to the blog, Kaitlyn. I’m looking forward to learning more about the path to publication for your debut picture book, A FAMILY LOOKS LIKE LOVE. </b></p><p><b>In an <a href="https://www.kidlitincolor.com/blog/cover-reveal-a-family-looks-like-love-by-kaitlyn-wells">earlier interview</a> you shared that the inspiration for this book was based on heartbreaking experiences you had growing up as a biracial child. I wonder if you could share more specifically how and when the idea came to you to write about these experiences in the form of a children’s book featuring a young pup who looks different from her doggy siblings? </b></p><p><b>Kaitlyn Wells</b>: Honestly, reliving a painful childhood experience wasn't the first thing I wanted to write about, but friend and fellow author <a href="http://www.nancyredd.com/">Nancy Redd</a> reminded me that it's OK to put yourself into your art and tell empowering stories. I thought about what I want other people to know about what it felt like to be told you didn't belong and that your family wasn't your own, simply because of the color of your skin. Along the way, I remembered that my dog Sutton looks completely different from her own family, too. She's a Chihuahua-mix with a brown tricolor coat. Two of her siblings have scruffy blond coats, and another has a black tricolor coat. Sutton's also a dog who sees the best in everyone and loves you no matter what you look like. It just seemed like telling a difficult story with my dog as the conduit fit perfectly with what I was trying to do, and made it a little bit easier to write the story too.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVA6fnJhfu_hpq3nV6qqCeVMvm_hhnJ0VR74A2xu-YVmwqsXTZejKo70ZdCOprx4baKHaFaM4bRjUzdY9jF6kvPjw-uNcj3S3WoJ_ANOMlg5JLy7J-RUYpl9sFO5Ny_V5nbToyTsAJOQPzEaHAVBruQrSe8Te5zt2Tsd-wpnvgbxc7RJS-FPLG_aCV_A/s1000/AFLLL-interior-1.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="688" data-original-width="1000" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVA6fnJhfu_hpq3nV6qqCeVMvm_hhnJ0VR74A2xu-YVmwqsXTZejKo70ZdCOprx4baKHaFaM4bRjUzdY9jF6kvPjw-uNcj3S3WoJ_ANOMlg5JLy7J-RUYpl9sFO5Ny_V5nbToyTsAJOQPzEaHAVBruQrSe8Te5zt2Tsd-wpnvgbxc7RJS-FPLG_aCV_A/w400-h275/AFLLL-interior-1.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interior Image from <a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/675687/a-family-looks-like-love-by-kaitlyn-wells-illustrated-by-sawyer-cloud/">A Family Looks Like Love</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>DP: It's so nice to have the backstory, Kaitlyn. Thanks for sharing it with us.</b></p><p><b>In addition to writing (and reading!) books for kids, you are an award-winning journalist, and you’ve written for a long list of different publications. This suggests you have quite a bit of experience submitting ideas to editors, and yet the children’s book publishing industry can pose its own unique challenges. I’d like to hear about the process and timeframe between your initial idea for this book and the manuscript that was formulated fully enough to submit to an editor. </b></p><p><b>KW</b>: Looking back, I've been writing stories since middle school. I've been honing my craft—as a writer, journalist, author or whatever you want to call me—my entire career. With this particular manuscript, I began scribbling down thoughts for the book in August 2019. But because of a mix of perfectionism and imposter syndrome, I didn't write my first draft until December 2019. From there, I went through several revisions with my critique partner. That same partner and friend shared my manuscript with her agent to ask for advice on what I should do next. Then things took a surprising turn. The agent, Jane Startz fell in love with the manuscript and offered to represent me. I did my research, we had a great conversation, and I signed with her that following May. After a few more revisions we went on submission. At that point, it became emotionally draining with every "no" we received from editors and publishing houses. My story was an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OwnVoices?src=hashtag_click">#ownvoices</a> manuscript, so it felt like every rejection was a reminder that my voice, that my lived experience, wasn't good enough for the publishing world. One day, I finally received good news, and in September 2020 I accepted an offer with <a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/675687/a-family-looks-like-love-by-kaitlyn-wells-illustrated-by-sawyer-cloud/">Penguin Random House</a>/Philomel Books (currently under Flamingo Books). Now, you'll be able to find <a href="https://bookshop.org/books/a-family-looks-like-love/9780593403792">A FAMILY LOOKS LIKE LOVE in bookstores </a>on May 31, 2022! </p><p><b>DP: That's quite a path-to-publication, story, Kaitlyn! Hooray! </b></p><p><b>KW</b>: Thank you! Looking back, I'm still surprised by how fast the process went and I believe my book publishing journey isn't typical. Although, just saying that out loud, I'm reminded that I don't have to justify my journey and I need to push imposter syndrome aside (yet again). So, correction: I didn't luck into anything during the process. I worked incredibly hard and earned everything I have achieved.</p><p><b>DP: Indeed! </b></p><p><b>Reflecting on the journey from idea to published book, is there any one moment along the way that you credit with opening the door for A FAMILY LOOKS LIKE LOVE to find its way to publication? I’d also like to hear if there is anything in particular that you bring from your other research and writing experiences that helps you be more successful in your role as a children’s book author?</b></p><p><b>KW</b>: All of the credit in the world goes to my colleague, <a href="http://www.nancyredd.com/">Nancy Redd</a>, who believed in me. Well, I should say my mother is the one who's always believed in me, followed by my wonderful husband. But in this particular instance, it was Redd who pushed me to write this particular picture book at this moment in time, and opened another door by sharing the manuscript with her agent. I will also say that our meeting was an accidental encounter. Redd and I live on opposite coasts in the U.S., and we only know one another because one day I shared a job opening at my company and she replied to the posting. I helped her through the application process by offering her cover letter and interview help, and when she landed the job our friendship grew. This is just to say that you never know what connections you make today will lead to good fortune in the future. So do the networking, be kind to everyone you meet, and put yourself out there.</p><p><b>DP: That's great advice, Kaitlyn, and such an excellent example of this advice in action. </b></p><p><b>KW</b>: I think so, too. As for the second part of your question, I'm a firm believer that skills are transferable—you've just got to know how to apply them to each new situation. I bring everything into my kidlit journey. The research and reporting skills and ability to translate complex information into compelling narratives translates well into my work as a children's book author. </p><p><b>DP: What an inspiring and empowering perspective. </b></p><p><b>When you compare one of your earliest drafts of this story to the version in the published book, what stands out for you in terms of what is most different? Likewise, is there anything that stands out that was included in your earliest drafts and survived the revision process?</b></p><p><b>KW</b>: The first version of the story featured a not-so-friendly squirrel. I don't want to spoil the story, but that character was later replaced with a honey bee who says some "stinging" things to my main character, Sutton. </p><p><b>DP: Ha! It will be fun for readers to discover this revision! </b></p><p><b>KW</b>: And since looks are integral to this story, I also considered the coat colors and textures of the dogs. The original version described Sutton's family as cream-colored or white (a nod to some of my own family members). But during the revision process, it became clearer to me that the story was centering whiteness, which wasn't something I wanted to do. The dogs ended up having yellow and brown coats instead, and I like this version better because it reflects the coats of the real-life Sutton's siblings.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimb3_LqmCx0KlvfxFE8g1HrkdpoiNg7a9JehUhkzDwmUhysMpTXQ0aTH6BcQ58PauXdTGxzMo0BwNeMnrfmNx03co1y2V0ppgJH2X9k-ZCFI66nlXM4pZFtTLwghWUL7nCkM0y8gwF4ngMM3RMmOwXR6LGjHsDR-owPLbVUU3ov4T55QJId7O2gnQMMw/s1000/AFLLL-interior-2.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="688" data-original-width="1000" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimb3_LqmCx0KlvfxFE8g1HrkdpoiNg7a9JehUhkzDwmUhysMpTXQ0aTH6BcQ58PauXdTGxzMo0BwNeMnrfmNx03co1y2V0ppgJH2X9k-ZCFI66nlXM4pZFtTLwghWUL7nCkM0y8gwF4ngMM3RMmOwXR6LGjHsDR-owPLbVUU3ov4T55QJId7O2gnQMMw/w400-h275/AFLLL-interior-2.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interior Image from <a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/675687/a-family-looks-like-love-by-kaitlyn-wells-illustrated-by-sawyer-cloud/">A Family Looks Like Love</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><b>DP: This is an excellent example of how important the revision process is to the writing process. </b></p><p><b>You write on a wide range of topics and for a variety of different publications in your role as a journalist. You also publish a newsletter "that explores how Black, Indigenous, and womxn of color navigate the world,” and you are engaged in many activities and initiatives, such as volunteering for organizations like the ASPCA and standing up for banned books. How do you balance the time between your different writing projects and the different aspects of the book publishing business alongside an active personal life?</b></p><p><b>KW</b>: Oh goodness, I am nowhere near on top of my game. For example, I will admit my newsletter isn't as active as I would like it to be. That's all to say that my work-life balance often has its struggles. But honestly, I love being busy and learning and growing as a person. I love helping others, especially animals, and if I can do something to make the world a tiny bit better, then I'm going to try. </p><p>When it comes to finding that balance, I constantly remind myself that perfection doesn't exist, and just doing the thing is better than doing nothing at all. In general, I try to devote an hour or two to each major project with the understanding that I can always come back to it and improve upon it another day. And if I don't that's OK too because I made enough progress that allows me to check it off my to-do list. No matter what, I try to remain in the moment and find joy in the task at hand so I don't obsess about it later on. Otherwise, I think self-tormenting can detract from my entire point of creating and growing and learning and helping others. It's a constant battle, and I'm always working on finding that balance.</p><p><b>DP: Thanks for the healthy and helpful perspective, Kaitlyn. I'm grateful for the reminder that we are all a work-in-progress. </b></p><p><b>If you could go back in time, what would you tell your pre-published self? Or, said another way, what do you know now, that you wished you would have known a bit earlier?</b></p><p><b>KW</b>: If I could go back to my childhood self who loved drawing horses and fairies, I would tell her to keep at it. I desperately wish I had developed my illustrator skills as there's a lot more freedom to tell stories a certain way when you have a strong say on both the words and images associated with your books. Then I would tell my adult self to just get the words out on the page. They don't need to be perfect because they can always be improved upon later. Just write it down. Come back to it later. Also, don't be afraid to write more stories than you think people want to read because, honestly, the world can always use empowering tales by a strong, Black biracial woman. Lastly, I would tell both selves that you deserve to be here, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.</p><p><b>DP: Yes, to all of this. </b></p><p><b>Is there something you wish someone would ask you about your path to publication for A FAMILY LOOKS LIKE LOVE that you haven’t had the opportunity to share yet? </b></p><p><b>KW</b>: What I will say is that every child matters. Everyone deserves to be represented in the books that they read. Don't be afraid to push boundaries and stay true to the authentic stories that you want to tell. </p><p>If someone tells you that your experiences as a diverse author don't have merit, surround yourself with people who respect you and your art. If someone actively keeps your story and the stories of your literary peers out of the hands of readers, know that you can do something about it. You can report book censorship to the <a href="https://www.ala.org/tools/challengesupport/report">American Library Association</a> or the <a href="https://ncac.org/report-censorship">National Coalition Against Censorship</a>, and run for local office to combat proposed censorship laws. </p><p><b>DP: Thank you for this, Kaitlyn. I know some of our readers really needed to hear these words and receive these resource links today. </b></p><p><b>Do you have anything you’d like to tell us about what you’re currently working on? </b></p><p><b>KW</b>: I have so many unpublished stories in the works. Right now, I'm excited about my upcoming biographical STEM picture book. I hope to announce it soon. I encourage you to <a href="https://mailchi.mp/1ff435acd462/kaitwells">subscribe to my newsletter</a> for updates. (Shameless plug, I know.)</p><p><b>DP: Shameless plugs are welcome here! </b></p><p><b>Thanks so much for sharing your Birth Story for <a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/675687/a-family-looks-like-love-by-kaitlyn-wells-illustrated-by-sawyer-cloud/">A FAMILY LOOKS LIKE LOVE</a> with us, Kaitlyn! </b></p><p><b>KW</b>: Thank you for inviting me to participate! And before I forget, you can always <a href="https://www.wordupbooks.com/WUS9780593403792">snag a signed copy of A FAMILY LOOKS LIKE LOVE</a> with one of my <span>local indies</span>. Happy reading!</p><p><b>DP: Dear readers, you've heard me say it before: the best way to thank an author whose insights have been helpful and/or inspiring to you is to support their work. Buy their books. Request them from your library. Read and share them with others. A FAMILY LOOKS LIKE LOVE is available everywhere books are borrowed and sold, including your own local, <a href="https://bookshop.org/books/a-family-looks-like-love/9780593403792">indie bookstore</a>. </b></p><p>********** </p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNNwGYo39HsJfmdw5aRliYgD_teQR-GE3_O4Vyhe1gsF6mxVy44gccOoiMS9Aq-megEtc0WKzTkt4Uvi4yaqSTpcFKn0rULChL3RT3mTNa0NYCr36_-Gsuy7-nPnnVDLEo6VgqIg0ZOOp9UiMFeubiATGLsNElIXH1LNdRr9fMPXaPXrbtDFtuia_dAQ/s1724/KaitlynWells-Sutton-2021-web.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1724" data-original-width="1378" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNNwGYo39HsJfmdw5aRliYgD_teQR-GE3_O4Vyhe1gsF6mxVy44gccOoiMS9Aq-megEtc0WKzTkt4Uvi4yaqSTpcFKn0rULChL3RT3mTNa0NYCr36_-Gsuy7-nPnnVDLEo6VgqIg0ZOOp9UiMFeubiATGLsNElIXH1LNdRr9fMPXaPXrbtDFtuia_dAQ/w320-h400/KaitlynWells-Sutton-2021-web.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span>Image Credit: Sarah Kobos</span></td></tr></tbody></table>Kaitlyn Wells (she/her) is an award-winning journalist whose work has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post, among others. Her commentary on diverse literature can be found in The New York Times Book Review, BookPage, and Diverse Kids Books. Her debut picture book A Family Looks Like Love arrives May 31, 2022 with Penguin Random House/Flamingo Books. She lives in New York City with her wonderful husband, rambunctious dog, and demanding cat. Visit <a href="http://KaitWells.com">KaitWells.com</a> to subscribe to her newsletter that explores how Black, Indigenous, and womxn of color navigate the world. And follow her on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KaitWells">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kaitwells15/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@kaitwells15">TikTok</a>, and <a href="https://twitter.com/KaitWells">Twitter</a>. <p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>**********</p><p><a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a> is an occasional feature of Dawn Babb Prochovnic's blog. Dawn is the author of multiple picture books including, <i>Lucy's Blooms</i>, <i>Where Does a Cowgirl Go Potty?</i>, <i>Where Does a Pirate Go Potty?</i>, and 16 books in the Story Time With Signs & Rhymes series. Dawn is a contributing author to the award-winning book, <i>Oregon Reads Aloud</i>, and a frequent presenter at schools, libraries, and educational conferences. Contact Dawn using the form at the left, or learn more at <a href="http://www.dawnprochovnic.com">www.dawnprochovnic.com</a>. </p>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7682068539362234072.post-17174710024005701892022-06-01T08:00:00.000-07:002022-06-01T08:00:00.225-07:00Birth Stories for Books: SOME DADDIES, by Carol Gordon Ekster<p>Hello readers! Today I have the pleasure of sharing with you an info-packed <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a> interview with <a href="https://carolgordonekster.com/">Carol Gordon Ekster</a>, where we'll learn about the path to publication for her latest book, <a href="https://bookshop.org/books/some-daddies/9781506460567">SOME DADDIES</a> (illustrated by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/javieramaclean/">Javiera Maclean Alvarez</a>, <a href="https://www.beamingbooks.com/store/product/9781506460567/Some-Daddies">Beaming Books</a>, May 2022.) </p><p>Carol contributed a <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2019/06/birth-stories-for-books-you-know-what.html">guest post</a> about her book, <a href="https://www.clavis-publishing.com/picture-books/you-know-what">YOU KNOW WHAT?</a>, back in 2019, and I'm so happy she's able to return to share more of her perspective and experience with us. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2HOVO9yN6Jp4G27UxD8riJjcOi-yE0vJ1q-HHQetf-fMBDzZc67IpFcliNlIpVADnz4Y7mIPZlucdt_wR1MKl56i-qs6PlE3o0YQlX8Rmr7UJ1NJu2Arm87QiRTA88_l523UCsGbic3Hh-biMnh8DynDT04vJ2_0G5g336gsGXeffmhfxYDrBWcDtuA/s900/Some%20Daddies%20cover%20copy.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2HOVO9yN6Jp4G27UxD8riJjcOi-yE0vJ1q-HHQetf-fMBDzZc67IpFcliNlIpVADnz4Y7mIPZlucdt_wR1MKl56i-qs6PlE3o0YQlX8Rmr7UJ1NJu2Arm87QiRTA88_l523UCsGbic3Hh-biMnh8DynDT04vJ2_0G5g336gsGXeffmhfxYDrBWcDtuA/s320/Some%20Daddies%20cover%20copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">by <a href="https://carolgordonekster.com/" style="text-align: left;">Carol Gordon Ekster</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/javieramaclean/">Javiera Maclean Alvarez</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>Dawn Prochovnic: Welcome back to the blog, Carol. We first met when I hosted you for a guest post back in 2019 to share the <a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2019/06/birth-stories-for-books-you-know-what.html">Birth Story</a> of your picture book, <a href="https://www.clavis-publishing.com/picture-books/you-know-what">YOU KNOW WHAT?</a> Since then we’ve chatted on <a href="https://writersrumpus.com/2019/10/08/inspirational-kidlit-author-interview-with-dawn-prochovnic/">Writers’ Rumpus</a> when you interviewed me during the launch of my potty humor books, and we’ve stayed in touch via social media. It’s great when authors return to the blog for a visit, especially when it’s because they have a new book out! I’m so excited to hear more about the path to publication for your latest title, <a href="https://bookshop.org/books/some-daddies/9781506460567">SOME DADDIES</a> (illustrated by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/javieramaclean/">Javiera Maclean Alvarez</a>, <a href="https://www.beamingbooks.com/store/product/9781506460567/Some-Daddies">Beaming Books</a>, May 2022.) The cover art is so inviting. I immediately wanted to open the book and see what was inside—and I was not disappointed! </b></p><p><b>In <a href="https://www.andrewhacket.com/post/the-backstory-some-daddies?fbclid=IwAR3sDuUS--Gc3INVwGx5_g3k9DRkyeT9X47IBSE3RsQi8jBqr3okR8NTOf8">an earlier interview</a>, you shared that the inspiration for this book came out of a FaceTime conversation with your grandson. I wonder if you could recap some of that again for us here. I’d also like to hear more about the process and timeframe between your initial idea for the book and the first manuscript that was formulated fully enough to submit to an editor.</b> </p><p><b>Carol Gordon Ekster</b>: Thanks for having me, Dawn! Yes, I was FaceTiming with my grandson on 12/17/17, when he was three years old. He noticed my husband had just shaved, and said his daddy shaved too, but his daddy had a beard…so he’s going to have a beard when he gets older because he’s going to be a daddy. I said…"Some daddies have beards…” I paused, my writing brain igniting, and wrote that down as a title. After drafting it and revising it, and bringing it to three of my critique groups, I thought it ready to send out. (It really wasn't!) I first sent it to an agent about three months later in March and heard the next day. He wrote, "It's very nice and there aren't enough father stories. What else do you have?" I sent a few other manuscripts, but never heard back from him. That's the nature of this business! He wasn't the right agent for me. I sent it to a few other places with limited responses, one agent saying it was too similar to Todd Parr's Daddy book, (which it isn't). </p><p><b>DP: That is the nature of this business, indeed! </b></p><p><b>You’ve mentioned that this book was “hearted" by <a href="https://twitter.com/NaomiJKrueger">Naomi Krueger</a> at <a href="https://www.beamingbooks.com/store/product/9781506460567/Some-Daddies">Beaming Books</a> during a <a href="http://www.pbpitch.com/">#PBPitch</a> event on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PBpitch?src=hashtag_click">Twitter</a>. Twitter pitch events are important opportunities for authors such as myself who are un-agented. Could you share with us the pitch for this book that caught your editor’s eye?</b> </p><p><b>CGE</b>: On October 25, 2018, there was a #pbpitch event. Here was what I put on Twitter: "SOME DADDIES-a 351-wd concept PB with heart. Some dads gro beards, some tuck u in with a song, some r called Baba, Tatti, etc.Every daddy is different.This is a repeated refrain.The bk opens possibility 4 illus 2 sho differences- looks, ethnicity, family structure, etc. #PBpitch"</p><p>Naomi Krueger from Beaming Books "hearted" the pitch. I reread my manuscript and sent it right out. And exactly one year to the day that I first FaceTimed with my grandson, I saw the acceptance on Submittable. Now that's fast in the world of publishing! But because of Covid, it was delayed a year, and came out May 17, 2022. And now my grandson is seven! Making books takes time. And as creatives, we'd be happier if we just let it take the time it takes. I've also realized that this business is very subjective.</p><p>Before I got the contract, I received communication from Naomi: "I love this celebration of fathers and all the diverse personalities and attributes that dads can have. I've been looking for a book about dads, and so I'm really excited about your manuscript." So my pitch caught her attention because she was interested in the topic. And when I got my acceptance letter, I knew she was the perfect editor for me. "We are pleased to inform you that Beaming Books would like to acquire “Some Daddies” to be published in a future list season. We love how this book celebrates the diversity of what it can look like to be a dad. This is so important for young kids who are starting to notice other children’s parents and compare them to their own, as well as how they develop their perception of healthy masculinity. This is a joyful book with a serious message—the type of book we would be proud to publish at Beaming Books." It touched on why I wrote the book, so that kids would understand they are not alone. That we all realize at some point that our daddies are not perfect and are in some way different from other daddies, but we love them for who they are. </p><p>Naomi went on maternity leave right after my acceptance, but I started to work on revising and tightening immediately. And then when she came back from her leave, we worked on it more together. She is an amazing editor. It was clear that she had a vision for this manuscript.</p><p><b>DP: What a fantastic backstory, Carol. I "heart" Beaming Books. How wonderful that you had just the right manuscript at just the right time for them! </b></p><p><b>When you compare one of your earliest drafts of this story to the version in the published book, what stands out for you in terms of what is most different? </b></p><p><b>CGE</b>: What stands out to me is that I restructured it to have more of an arc, even though it's a concept book. I originally started with my initial idea – "Some daddies have beards." I revised to begin with the dads waking up and we go through their day and bedtime. I also initially had the different names for daddies in different languages, like Baba, Tatti, etc, as I had in my #pbpitch, but Naomi thought it best to leave that out as the book isn’t specifically about other cultures and languages. It’s more about personalities. Which was true! So now I've included that on my website as a follow-up activity. I do <a href="https://carolgordonekster.com/book-activities">activities for each of my books</a> in all modalities. </p><p>And I discovered something humorous when looking through my drafts in response to this question. In the page about what dads drink, I didn't have this in my accepted manuscript, but I added in, "Others drink a bottle of beer." I did this because as a fourth-grade teacher I saw that kids worried about their dads having beers when the local policeman came to our class each year to talk about drugs and alcohol. I wanted to assure children that it is perfectly normal for parents to have beers sometimes…and that they are not alone in their concerns. But before I had even shown this to Naomi, I decided to delete that line. </p><p><b>DP: What a great find in your draft file and such heartwarming reasoning to go behind it. </b></p><p><b>On the flip side, is there anything that stands out that was included in your earliest drafts and survived the revision process?</b></p><p><b>CGE</b>: Something that stands out that was included in my early drafts and survived the revision process was the sentiment in this page spread, </p><p>"Some daddies share comforting words and cry with you.</p><p>Others love making you laugh. </p><p>Some barely hug.</p><p>Others hug like bears." </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMyTUTH5z12YHEtGdTmWZ4OHr8I84SVL-MctxQ5hrrW_Pj5j5NIES6ZaAmC4Ol-vaYhTjQRv8Qn6e5JqhYYDAeoC62cHy4Lu0GKAHGg5C6TiB7B-_aaaOqBOt5daGr2CHQoqZjx-aE3ns5rI00PMLu_WoaYHEzzACuhAOp_uOTHJAdjG9I70fLZYvl_A/s2700/BB_SomeDaddies_INTERIOR%20SPREAD%20R4%20copy.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="2700" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMyTUTH5z12YHEtGdTmWZ4OHr8I84SVL-MctxQ5hrrW_Pj5j5NIES6ZaAmC4Ol-vaYhTjQRv8Qn6e5JqhYYDAeoC62cHy4Lu0GKAHGg5C6TiB7B-_aaaOqBOt5daGr2CHQoqZjx-aE3ns5rI00PMLu_WoaYHEzzACuhAOp_uOTHJAdjG9I70fLZYvl_A/w400-h200/BB_SomeDaddies_INTERIOR%20SPREAD%20R4%20copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interior Image: <a href="https://www.beamingbooks.com/store/product/9781506460567/Some-Daddies">SOME DADDIES</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Naomi was sensitive to children whose fathers are not involved in their lives or who have difficult relationships with their dads. I appreciated her wisdom and guidance to reword the first line to put it in a more positive light than my original wording and then to suggest setting it in a doctor's waiting room after one daddy made a mistake and missed catching his daughter resulting in a playground fall. </p><p>This page was important to me as I think it really shows the different personalities dads can have. My dad was one who barely hugged. And when I was younger that was hard for me. But I learned to accept him and appreciate his many other incredible gifts. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZtpdmivNuGRux7Xw6TcCYwKk3j3Y9MHlsfL_700RGc0j6DuTNs4kkSURVw-FOM2qIEGzTjdq0ZUoxW6EuraIv5kr6q_XRcx9DLsFOwnE7OJ4Ou0Rm0HO7VMMynFbbrM8fiJ9FwKhUzWQJXrIP5XRXHUvX-WRMp896eUakAWFdU66iVsvdvNA0VPNckA/s2382/SOMEDADDIES%20pg-playground%20scene%20%20copy.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="2382" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZtpdmivNuGRux7Xw6TcCYwKk3j3Y9MHlsfL_700RGc0j6DuTNs4kkSURVw-FOM2qIEGzTjdq0ZUoxW6EuraIv5kr6q_XRcx9DLsFOwnE7OJ4Ou0Rm0HO7VMMynFbbrM8fiJ9FwKhUzWQJXrIP5XRXHUvX-WRMp896eUakAWFdU66iVsvdvNA0VPNckA/w400-h201/SOMEDADDIES%20pg-playground%20scene%20%20copy.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interior Image: <a href="https://www.beamingbooks.com/store/product/9781506460567/Some-Daddies">SOME DADDIES</a><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>DP: Oh, these details make me love the book even more, Carol. Thank you for sharing this with us. </b></p><p><b>When you compare the path to publication for this book to the paths to publication for some of your other children’s books, what are some of the key similarities and differences in terms of the publication journeys for each?</b></p><p><b>CGE</b>: A key difference was that this was acquired faster than my other manuscripts, but still took more than four years from the initial idea to holding the book in my hand. In my journey as an author, that's a quick turnaround. My next book comes out in 2023 and I wrote the first draft in 2013. That's ten years! The similarities are that each book acquisition has been a unique process, but always an exciting and nerve-wracking time. I know that it will really be out in the world so I want to make it my very best work. The pressure is real! I will share a manuscript with others even after it is acquired. And you realize what a group effort it is to make a book. I do not write alone. From the beginning, I get ideas and input from critique buddies, then from an editor, and the illustrator and art director, all who add their magic to make this into the amazing art form that picture books are. </p><p><b>DP: That is so true! There are so many helpful hands that join together to make a children's book. </b></p><p><b>Another magical part of being an author is connecting with young readers at school, library, and bookstore visits, and I’m always looking for new pro tips. In addition to being a children’s book author, you are a retired teacher who taught 4th grade for 35 years. (Wow!) Based on your wealth of experience working with young learners, what professional advice or suggestions do you have for fellow author/presenters in terms of planning successful (in-person and/or remote) book events?</b></p><p><b>CGE</b>: First and foremost be passionate! Kids know when you are not sincere. You have to be vibrant and keep their attention and interest. You need to engage them. I ask the audience questions on a power point presentation and have them raise their hands to let me know which answer they choose. It definitely helps that I was a teacher. I know topics that were covered in my grade level and what teachers want you to focus on. And I love touching on the life lessons of perseverance, responsibility, and hard work. We have the power to touch lives! And I want to give one tip I see happen in auditoriums or smaller book events all the time. When you get questions from the audience, repeat that question. The others may not have heard it and it's hard for listeners to be engaged without knowing what the question was. </p><p><b>DP: Great tips, Carol!</b></p><p><b>Taking a stroll through your <a href="https://carolgordonekster.com/">website</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/cekster">social media</a> feeds, it is clear you are a passionate educator at heart. You’ve said that writing picture books has allowed you a second career and a new way to communicate with children. If there is one overarching message you hope to communicate to children through your body of work, what would that message be? </b></p><p><b>CGE</b>: You are not alone! And there is a community of people and books that will help you navigate your way through life. </p><p><b>DP: What a beautiful message! </b></p><p><b>You are a member of multiple critique groups, and you have written over 100 manuscripts, several of which that have now become books. How have you created structure(s) in your life to keep you on track and moving forward despite the increased level of flexibility in your current schedule as compared to when you were a teacher and school bells rang to tell you when it was time for lunch or recess? I’d especially like to hear if there is anything in particular that you bring from your teaching career that helps you be more successful in your role as a children’s book author?</b></p><p><b>CGE</b>: I have actually specifically NOT created structure in this author life. There was too much of that in my teaching life. Now I usually begin my day with exercise and then move on with the day as my mood dictates. Every day there might be something that moves me to action. An e-mail from a critique buddy with a critique that makes me want to jump into a revision using their notes. I might get a response from an agent or editor that pushes me to make a new submission or rethink one of my manuscripts. I might have an opportunity for promotion, like this interview! I might feel drawn to read one of the picture books in my pile that I've picked up from the library. And something in that book I read just might click on an idea for a new manuscript or a revision. If I have a deadline for something, I put a reminder on my phone or leave myself a note to make sure I take care of all the many facets of a writing life. But this is where I want to be, immersed in this wonderful calling. Too often I hold off on dealing with all the other responsibilities of life, preferring the meditative feel of lining up words in just the right order. </p><p><b>DP: What a wonderful answer to this question, Carol. I so appreciate the validation for letting the writing life take you where it will take you. </b></p><p><b>If you could go back in time, what would you tell your pre-published self? Or, said another way, what do you know now, that you wished you would have known a bit earlier?</b></p><p><b>CGE</b>: It takes the time it takes. Be patient! And trust in the process. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5l-Tex6NCM1_Pa6jo_UgFIYZGs3v6exRfKcckuJSXhbzoOEW6hPWfiZv1qnXuE33vm7qyNuue9xwiZhjWG53sZsOsxGt5KTwlVs7WClpAUJkmM_hyghHtshRESWKebi5eUGEq2Y1ie3swu8moLxY0r2jZAQGOiZmafXj4XdDbnjZ_IgJPSjbHLtVvUQ/s2568/holding%20Some%20Daddies%20ARC%20.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2568" data-original-width="2087" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5l-Tex6NCM1_Pa6jo_UgFIYZGs3v6exRfKcckuJSXhbzoOEW6hPWfiZv1qnXuE33vm7qyNuue9xwiZhjWG53sZsOsxGt5KTwlVs7WClpAUJkmM_hyghHtshRESWKebi5eUGEq2Y1ie3swu8moLxY0r2jZAQGOiZmafXj4XdDbnjZ_IgJPSjbHLtVvUQ/s320/holding%20Some%20Daddies%20ARC%20.jpg" width="260" /></a></div><br /><p><b>DP: Indeed!</b></p><p><b>Is there anything else you wanted to share about SOME DADDIES? </b></p><p><b>CGE</b>: My husband has helped me make book trailers for all but my first book, which was before I knew about trailers! But for SOME DADDIES, we mentioned the trailer to my creative jewelry-designing musically talented brother-in-law, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ronrizzojewelry/">Ron Rizzo</a>, when we were staying at my sister's house. The next day we heard him strumming on his guitar and whistling. He wrote an original song for the trailer! My husband used that song to organize Javiera's illustrations and I just love the result of this family project. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=quCbcNHNbg8">Here's the link</a>. </p><p><b>DP: Oh my gosh, Carol! I LOVE this song and book trailer so much! As you may recall, I've added <a href="https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLs4Np20HjD4H-t0tiRp3xxitswHv7jWcM">musical elements to several of my picture books</a>, and this song and video of yours is such a GREAT example of how music can add so much enrichment to an already marvelous story. Bravo to all involved!</b></p><p><b>Shifting gears, do you have anything you’d like to tell us about that you’re currently working on?</b></p><p><b>CGE</b>: I'm still always working on multiple manuscripts at once and when so moved, go back to older manuscripts that have not yet sold. But I'm very excited about the next upcoming picture book, <i>Trucker Kid</i>, illustrated by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/russcox_books/">Russ Cox</a>, coming out spring 2023 with <a href="https://www.capstonepub.com/">Capstone</a>. This is one of those manuscripts that I believed in and kept revising and then pulled it out again during Covid because I felt more appreciative than ever of the importance of trucking in our lives. I added an author's note and what might happen within just a few days of trucks stopping service to our mail, groceries, garbage, etc. It made the story more relevant and timely which I believe helped it sell. I recently saw the first cover sketch and it's amazing. This is an exciting time for me, receiving initial sketches and seeing the book come together. I truly feel blessed to have two new books entering the world.</p><p><b>DP: That sounds great, Carol. I look forward to celebrating that new book, too! </b></p><p><b>Thanks so much for sharing your Birth Story for SOME DADDIES with us. It's a really lovely book.</b></p><p><b>CGE</b>: Thank YOU, Dawn! </p><p><b>Dear readers, the best way to thank an author whose insights have been helpful and/or inspiring to you is to support their work. Buy their books. Request them from your library. Read and share them with others. And share this post with a friend to help get the word out about the book. <a href="https://bookshop.org/books/some-daddies/9781506460567">SOME DADDIES</a> is available everywhere books are borrowed and sold. </b></p><p>********** </p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq3M75dkxc0_jxZbIlHyBVW-svBrDdirS3kBdcTfdwZutgeWPxJXWLn0nWRmO8bLAYCoWztlPU7i-B_mw6aPXHgtwOB8PDGhOM0pB1mbyKkPR5L1z-xxGkxuKvQ7sAuoxhkFF7Jh4CONff-NcLiGYsiMFcxVUM9bQS_6c-M6uGUeyj6BwwZluNwScBHA/s910/Carol's%20professionalheadshotbeach%202%20copy.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="811" data-original-width="910" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq3M75dkxc0_jxZbIlHyBVW-svBrDdirS3kBdcTfdwZutgeWPxJXWLn0nWRmO8bLAYCoWztlPU7i-B_mw6aPXHgtwOB8PDGhOM0pB1mbyKkPR5L1z-xxGkxuKvQ7sAuoxhkFF7Jh4CONff-NcLiGYsiMFcxVUM9bQS_6c-M6uGUeyj6BwwZluNwScBHA/s320/Carol's%20professionalheadshotbeach%202%20copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.paulasuephotography.com/">Image Source</a><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Carol Gordon Ekster was a passionate elementary school teacher for thirty-five years. Now retired, Carol is grateful that her writing allows her to continue communicating with children. She is the author of <i>Before I Sleep: I Say Thank You</i> which won 3rd place in the children’s category of the Catholic Press Association Book Awards and was also a finalist for the ACP Excellence in Publishing Awards 2016. Her picture book, <i>You Know What?</i>, came out first in Dutch (<i>Mama, Wist Je Dat?</i>), December 2016 with Clavis Books. The English version released September 2017 and was a CLEL Bell Picture Book Awards Nominee for Talk (2018) and a finalist for the SCBWI Crystal Kite Award in the New England region, 2018. The Korean language edition came out 2019 and Arabic and Chinese editions are in process. <i>Some Daddies</i>, illustrated by Javiera Maclean Alvarez came out May 2022 with Beaming Books. <i>Trucker Kid</i>, illustrated by Russ Cox comes out spring 2023 with Capstone. When Carol is not in a critique group or at her computer she might be doing yoga or biking. She lives in Andover, Massachusetts with her husband Mark. Find out more at <a href="http://www.carolgordonekster.com">www.carolgordonekster.com</a> <p></p><p>And connect with her here: <a href="https://linktr.ee/carolgordonekster">https://linktr.ee/carolgordonekster</a> <br /></p><p>**********</p><p><a href="https://www.dawnprochovnic.com/2018/11/birth-stories-for-books-posts-about.html">Birth Stories for Books</a> is an occasional feature of Dawn Babb Prochovnic's blog. Dawn is the author of multiple picture books including, <i>Lucy's Blooms</i>, <i>Where Does a Cowgirl Go Potty?</i>, <i>Where Does a Pirate Go Potty?</i>, and 16 books in the <i>Story Time With Signs & Rhymes</i> series. Dawn is a contributing author to the award-winning book, <i>Oregon Reads Aloud</i>, and a frequent presenter at schools, libraries, and educational conferences. Contact Dawn using the form at the left, or learn more at <a href="http://www.dawnprochovnic.com">www.dawnprochovnic.com</a>. </p>Dawn Babb Prochovnichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11937198669942684231noreply@blogger.com0