PiBoIdMo: Day 4

It’s day four of PiBoIdMo. How are you doing so far?

In addition to thinking of new book ideas, I’m also creating sketches to help flesh out those ideas and experiment with different styles. The pic above is an example of my “playing around.”

Beginner childrens book writers and illustrators . . . keep on pushin’

As a newbie to childrens books and PiBoIdMo, I’m intimidated by the idea of actually creating 30 new ideas. But on the flip side, I’m pretty psyched about having 30 new ideas after this is all over. Now . . . how many of those ideas are viable books is a whole other story .

Is this your first time participating in PiBoIdMo, too? Do you think you’ll hit it out of the park, or end up banging your head against your keyboard? Well, whatever you do, JUST KEEP WRITING!

Cheers!

April
Thinking. Believing. Creating.

Feeling renewed

I still haven’t fully recovered from my time at the 2011 Florida Writers Conference. I always get a feeling of renewal, of being energized enough to take on the world when it’s over. Being around a ton of like-minded people trying to accomplish similar goals always help to get your own To-do list in shape.

Everything is going well

I was super excited to learn that two novels I edited (one Middle Grade, the other general fiction) were picked up by agents. All of our hard work paid off.

I braved the waters of having my current picture book manuscript (which is new for me as I usually write general/YA fiction) and illustrations reviewed. I received very positive feedback with a nudge (and contact info) to obtain an artist agent! I never thought my work would be considered “agent worthy” but you better believe I’m jumping on the opportunity!

Just one problem

I discovered I suck at self-promoting. It’s sad when your peers rush in to promote you and give you “the look” because you’re oblivious to doing it for yourself. Yep, I’m one of those fools walking around without a business card even though I have one (which reminds me, I need to update it), who doesn’t tell others about what I do and how I can help them . . . And that’s a major part of going to conferences! Heck, I help others self-promote for a living, for goodness sake. So I should know better, right?

Do you ever have that problem? Most artist (often introverts) are content with just the art side of things, and want to shrivel up and die when it comes to the business side. It can be a nightmare trying to navigate the networking scene.

Maybe I should rethink this thing . . .

So I made a point of redoing my To-do List with a focus that better suits my end goals

• Draw like mad to add to my portfolio
• Shave off some of my current projects and be more selective with new ones
• Be more active in promoting myself to others—but don’t overkill!
• Give myself permission to be great

I really like that last one. Considering my previous list of To-dos, it’s a miracle I was able to shave it down. The benefit for this self-professed (and other-accused >_<) workaholic, though, is that I’m drawing a lot more than I have in years. I’m quite proud of that. Some of the new pieces will be posted on here in upcoming weeks.

Another blessing of serendipity

PiBoIdMo. Have you heard of it?

It’s the kid sibling of NaNoWriMo held by Tara Lazar, and the second bout of serendipity I’ve had in as many weeks. With my new goals focus, PiBoIdMo came at the perfect time.

The idea behind PiBoIdMo is to write 30 new picture book ideas in 30 days. Writing ideas isn’t the only focus, however, as illustration ideas are included. Did I mention this had perfect timing? I plan to dust off the old drawing and stretch out the old writing skills.

Sign-up is open until Nov. 2, so get in while the gettin’s hot! I’m signed up and ready to go. Hopefully, you’ll join me.

Cheers!
April

P.S. Are you working on refocusing your goals? Do you plan to participate in PiBoIdMo as a writer or illustrator? Leave a comment telling me all about what you’re working on. I’d love to hear of what you have going on

Getting back to my roots

The clarinet was my instrument of choice as a kid. As an adult? I lost the music somewhere along the way.

I’ve been on a classical music kick of late. The little kid in me wanting to get back in touch with my roots. I managed to reconnect with some of the “oldies but goodies” like Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata, and in the process came across a melody that I had not heard before. A melody that sincerely moved me as the artist’s love of the piano and the composer’s work can be felt within every note.

The gift of something special

Jeremiah Jones, technologist by trade but classical pianist at heart, created a rendition of Robert Schumann’s Child Falling Asleep that brought me to tears.

With his innovative take on this sweet (and at times melancholy) melody, his rich crescendos/decrescendos executed at the perfect moment . . . Jones’ style is a graceful celebration of the transient struggles experienced by a child falling asleep.

Sharing the love with the masses

” . . . I have a strong passion for classical piano music and founded the Lisztonian website with the goal of sharing that passion with the public.”

As means of sharing his love of and skill with classical piano pieces, Jones also posts free mp3s on his web site lisztonian.com, and releases podcasts via iTunes. If I were you, I’d download a favorite mp3 or subscribe to his podcasts as soon as possible!

Thank you, Mr. Jones. Your gift is greatly valued.

Click here for Jones’ Child Falling Asleep.

April

Disclaimer:
I received no compensation from Mr. Jones for this post. I genuinely enjoy his music and think it should be shared with everyone.

Too much?

Ever have that moment when you look at your calendar and realize things are finally starting to slow down because long-term projects are finally coming to an end? Or revel in that precious moment when you can sit back in your chair and breathe a much-needed sigh of relief? Then you just happen to shift your eyes on the calendar to the next week . . . and scream.

Yep. That’s me, too.

Since I have a tendency to have projects stretched all over my calendar (paper or digital), I get lulled into a false sense of security by organizing on a day-to-day basis. Because of this, I have to make a habit of creating a Project Overview list to check in with myself. Here’s a partial list of what’s currently on my plate:

1. Grading student final exams and projects
2. Completing a PowerPoint presentation for the National Career Pathways Network Annual Conference (I’m getting an award for “Best Teaching Practices” for an InDesign course curriculum I created and teach during the summer–Woot!)
3. Chemistry and Stats courses (I’m a nerd at heart—ye-yah! But did I mention I’m a mathephobe?)
4. Getting ready for the Florida Writers Association (FWA) Conference (I’m also helping orchestrate the publishers/agents interviews and critiques)
5. Becoming the FWA Assistant Web Master
6. Finish Illustrating a picture-book for my hubby
7. Write copy for a corporate ID project
8. Construct a shed-roost for our horde of chickens and geese

That slowing down I mentioned earlier . . . Yeeeeeah, don’t think so.

But if your to-do list starts to get so long that you start to hyperventilate, or get writer’s cramp before you get to the end, it’s probably a good sign to start cutting and/or prioritizing.

You only have so much time in a day and years in a lifetime, so if there is a project you can do without, let it go. If you can’t let it go, is there flexibility in its deadline? Can you hand the project over to someone else? If you can hand it over to someone else, DO IT. Just don’t add more to the list later–unless you know for sure you can handle it. Let go of the Yes Man gripping tightly on your back, or . . .

All work and no play . . . can turn you into crazy Jack Nicholson

Constantly saying yes to projects and working all the time doesn’t get you very far. Without some occasional peace time to cull workaholic-traveling-at-the-speed-of-light behavior, you’d go bonkers like Nicholson in Steven King’s The Shining. To balance out your inner Crazy Nicholson, make sure to create some fun time for yourself.

My current fun projects are

1. Grab a quiet spot to just chill, sip on some coffee, or read
2. Begin writing on a manuscript for a YA book idea
3. Complete illustrations for my own picture book
4. Read about and study other illustrators and writers I admire
5. Find workshops for illustration to update my skills and meet others in the field

My Fun List is kind of long but I don’t plan to do all of the items on it at once; however, a little variety goes a long way. Your list can be as complicated or as simple as you want it, depending on what works for your schedule, of course. Try not to make the mistake of creating more work for yourself! The goal is to create fun. Not reasons to run.

Becoming a Yes Man—for yourself

I know balancing your time can be difficult. Especially if you have difficulty saying no to most things asked of you, have familial demands—I’m right there with you. But know that it must be done.

At one time I was a member of the Just Say Yes club, constantly pushed my wants to the back in favor of helping others meet their needs . . . But I learned to stop. My world didn’t come to a screeching halt, and I discovered the process wasn’t as hard as I expected. The benefit? More time for me. Who doesn’t want more “me time”?

Don’t get me wrong. In itself, wanting to help others isn’t a bad thing, but when helping others interferes with your ability to achieve your own goals, it most certainly is.

So, in honor of the late Steve Jobs who had a voracious appetite for discovering, setting and accomplishing goals, “Stay hungry. Stay foolish.” You’ll be happier and more satisfied in life if you do.

April

Only one rule

Herb’s favorite story is Little Red Riding Hood, but if his mother ever reads it to him before bedtime, there is only one rule: always close the book when it’s finished. In her book, Beware of the Storybook Wolves, Lauren Child‘s takes readers on a fantastic ride through the land of twisted fairy tales.

Hungry wolves and clever little boys

When Herb’s mother leaves to answer a phone call in the middle of reading his favorite story, she forgets to close the book. As he settles down to sleep, Herb suddenly feels eyes watching his every move!

When Herb turns on the light, he finds he’s surrounded by the hungry Big Wolf and ferocious Little Wolf (who usually lives on the back cover of the book).

Magic, mayhem and the conquering of fears

Herb has to think fast to avoid being eaten by the hungry wolves, but just as he has them convinced to find their meal elsewhere, Sleeping Beauty’s evil fairy godmother rats him out.

Not to be undone, Herb enlists the help of Cinderella’s fairy godmother, and chaos ensues. With a bit of luck and a sprinkling of bravery, Herb just may be able to pull through.

A crazy story that’s crazy fun

Lauren Child‘s playful book, Beware of the Storybook Wolves, was a giggle-inducing adventure. Her stylized, colorful “paper cutout” illustrations keep readers eyes entertained as well as their minds. Her humorous take on some of the world’s most classic fairy tales will keep you rolling well after the book is safely closed.

P.S. Have you read a book that puts a twist on your favorite fairy tale?

Leave a comment telling me all about.

Finders keepers

Duck and Goose have found something special—a giant egg! But . . . whose is it? Duck says, “I saw it first!” Goose says, “I touched it first!” So begins the battle of who owns the egg in Tad Hill‘s book, Duck & Goose.

Duck wants to teach the new baby how to quack. Goose says the baby will learn to honk. However, the two are surprised when they discover they both want the baby to waddle and swim.

But just when Duck and Goose are on the verge of settling their differences, a little blue jay stops by to turn the duo’s world upside-down.

An early reader delight

Created for ages 3-7, Duck & Goose is a pretty good book for beginning readers. However, it may prove difficult for some with words like “absolutely”. But the book would also be good for reading aloud.

Hill also illustrated the book with original oil paintings that are strong, eye-catching and inviting. Kids will love the bright colors and comedic antics of Duck & Goose.

P.S. Have you read Duck & Goose?

What did you think of it? Do you have a favorite funny book you recommend? Leave a comment below to tell me about it

Rescue from the heat

The cool air that rushed through the library doors was a godsend as the Florida heat—as usual—showed no mercy. As I made my way past the service desk, I greeted various staff who were becoming familiar with my presence. The library was pretty quiet, which you’d think was a given, but at this particular branch, its popular teen/kid/toddler programs often made the place alive with young voices. A treat in and of itself.

On the hunt for new material to feed my growing fascination with picture books, I perused the aisles, picking up a book here and there with covers that drew me in. I admit it. I’m shallow when it comes to book cover but I make no apologies. Like food, if a cover doesn’t look good, I’m not so inclined to consume what’s inside. You can blame my graphic design side.

A good find

When I reached the “S” section, I came across a book one of the staff had singled out by placing it on top of the bookshelf. Millie Waits for the Mail by Alexander Steffensmeier (who also illustrated the book) had a bold color scheme and playful subject matter that made me smile. A curious black and white spotted cow peeked from behind a tree, waiting for someone. Millie Waits for the Mail had me at ‘Hello’.

Millie Waits for the Mail is a hilarious read. I laughed from beginning to end because Millie isn’t like other cows. She has a hobby that sets the mailman on edge and her owner on a mission—all to the reader’s delight. Who knew that delivering the mail could be so difficult?

A breath of fresh air

Steffensmeier’s artwork is beautiful and perfectly fits the surprising and well written story line. Children will love Millie’s wild escapades and parents will love the overall message of being cautious of how you treat others as you just may need them some day.

I highly recommend this book. Though I borrowed this from my local library, I will be purchasing a copy to add to my personal collection. Yeah… it’s just that good

Cheers,
April

P.S. Have you read Millie Waits for the Mail or any of Steffensmeier’s books?

Or do you have a recommendation for a good children’s book that left you rolling with laughter? Leave a comment or send a message. I’d love to know about it

This was it

The theater darkened. All quieted as the traditional roller coaster ride through floating drinks and exploding popcorn kernels signaled the show was about to start. The last installment of Harry Potter was underway and like starving men we hungrily awaited.

But first, of course, we must prove our worthiness by suffering a final test: the dreaded (and seemingly endless) stream of movie trailers for the upcoming year. The bad horror flicks that just won’t go away. The serious drama that’s predictable but will still probably win an Emmy. The dance story that’s unrealistic but if you add hip-hop, it suddenly has instant cool. But sometimes … when your teeth are ground down next to nothing, and you’re just about to black out from the mind-numbing pain, sometimes a director will mercifully give you a reprieve.

John Carter. That just says it all.

Disney is making a film of Edgar Rice Burroughs’ classic, The Princess of Mars, under the title John Carter, due out March 9, 2012. The story is a mix of mystical powers, science fiction and good old imagination.

A Confederate Civil War vet, Carter and a colleague travel to Arizona to mine for gold. While on the trip, they are attacked by Indians and sent on the run. John is cornered in a cave where he is surrounded by a mysterious light that one moment has him on Earth, but in the next, on the red surface of Mars.

The stories (originally serialized) of John Carter gave rise to characters like Tarzan and Conan the Barbarian, and greatly influenced many of today’s science fiction and fantasy writers. I’m excited to see a film paying homage to Burroughs’ work.

New worlds. New adventures.

I first discovered this series in elementary school. Not at actual school, mind you, but on one of my mother’s many trips to weekend garage sales. On one occasion, in which I actually decided to get out of the car, I came across a book with artwork that took my breath away. A Conan-like man holding a sword with a flowing red cape. A barely covered, yet proud woman crouched in front of him. Both framed by a dark, alien landscape that only dreams are made. It was beautiful. It was drawn by Frank Frazetta—a master.

I had no clue what the story was about as I read the back cover. In all honesty, it was a far cry from Cleary’s Ramona. Luckily, I still took the plunge (with my mother’s ok). In doing so, a whole new world of literary genius was opened up to me.

Have you read any of the Man of Mars books? What did you think of the story? Will Disney do the story justice?

Cheers,
April

That’s just wrong

Over the past few months I’ve been consistently reading digital books—be it through my local library, Amazon, Barnes and Noble or Books-a-Million—I’ve noticed a heck of a lot more typos in books than there used to be.

For example

The fear in Robert’s gaze made his heart clenched.

Not bad but still interrupts the flow when you’re in a groove.

And here we have

he man was stiff, and his eyes dry.

Is the author talking about the legendary hero of the Castle of Grayskull?

When I see a typo in what is suppose to be a professional manuscript, I tend to second guess the writer’s or publisher’s abilities—unless the book has a serious wow factor. Typos can be a distraction from a story line. Imagine typos as that cellphone going off in a darkened movie theater. You wouldn’t want to be distracted from your little slice of escapism. Don’t expect your audience to want to be either.

Getting what you pay for

We pick up books for a reason: temporary escapism and literary intellectualism (ok, so maybe some of the books I read wouldn’t exactly be classified as “literary intellectualism”, still … they should be held to the same standard, darn it). If you’re laying down your hard earned dollars, the product should at least be typo-free.

I can only boil this trend down to quality control. In the race for publishers (including self-publishing authors) to get a book out as quickly as possible, it’s evident that some parts of the digital book process are being sacrificed. In turn, authors and publishers are sacrificing legitimacy and professionalism.

But shouldn’t a digital book make for easier changes?

You’d think. Since these are in digital format, writers and publishers should have the ability to make timely updates to a manuscript once a problem is discovered. Amazon has a policy of not updating purchased books unless the buyer specifically requests a new copy—or if Amazon receives a court order (remember the Kindle Orwell fiasco?).

And even if you do give notice of mistakes needing to be corrected, there is no guarantee that any would actually be corrected. Amazon says it makes corrections on future editions; however, many have found that the same mistakes often go untouched. And in the case of the author who became belligerant when errors were pointed out in her novel, even some authors are not keen on guaranteeing quality control or displaying professionalism.

So whose fault is it, anyway?

Personally, I don’t believe a bookseller should be responsible for making corrections. Fault lies with the writers/editors and publishers. They are the most familiar with the text.

I understand that a novel is a huge undertaking, but if there are significant typos in a manuscript and the mistakes are called out, the book should probably go back to an author’s/publisher’s drawing board. Or if a book has only a few typos, authors and publishers can make a policy to update and provide a new manuscript to booksellers once or twice a month—at least until a manuscript is given a clean bill of health (i.e. no more correction notices are received).

What do you guys think? Have you noticed this trend?

And if you noticed any typos in this post (or any other, for that matter), please let me know. I’m not above admitting to and fixing my mistakes

Cheers!
April