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Critiques- The Good, The Bad, and The Hungry

What makes a worthy critique? Those of us who have tried on multiple critique partners over a number of years, in hopes of finding the one right fit, have a fairly good idea of what helps us in our own writing. Most critiquers are sensitive enough not to rip apart another artist’s work. It takes… Read more »

Coaching a Coach: What motivates kids?

Hello fellow bloggers. Long time no see. While not blogging for the past several months, I’ve been busy writing, rewriting, participating in an online class, rewriting, dancing with my dream agent, and yada yada yada. The yada I refer to relates to other obligations. Like family. I’m often shocked at the benefits of pushing away… Read more »

Austin SCBWI 2010 Conference

Photo Key in descending order:Cheryl KleinCarmen Oliver, Jane Peddicord, Mark G. MitchellCarmen Oliver, Donna Bowman Bratton, Jane PeddicordShana Burg, Bethany Hegedus, Sean PetrieGreg Leitich Smith, Julie Lake, Brian Yansky, Frances YanskyWhat was left of the breakfast buffet before the first breakTim Crow’s welcoming addressCarmen Oliver working the kitchenRock stars from left to right: Jacqueline Kelly,… Read more »

Good News from the Austin Children’s-Lit community

Sorry for the wacky image placements, folks. I can’t seem to get them lined up neatly. 2010 has already been a banner year for Austin area children’s authors. What are the odds of so many accolades landing in one metropolitan area? For those of us in this blessed writing community, it doesn’t matter. We’re just… Read more »

Time for my little blog to grow up

Boy, has time flown by. I’m so far behind on my blogging that it feels overwhelming to catch up. In my next post, I’ll add my congratulations to the recent ALA awards presented to local Texas authors as well as recap the best SCBWI conference to ever hit the planet. For now, I’d like to… Read more »

My Miracle Candle Tradition

The holidays are such reflective times. Many of us feel vulnerable. Mixed with all the jolliness, emotions are raw. Regrets may surface. Old wounds may be opened. Families are either missed or have stayed a tad too long. If we’re lucky, gratitude springs forward and small miracles reveal themselves. Under our Christmas tree this year… Read more »

Highlights Founders Workshop- Nonfiction Storytelling

I was fortunate to attend the Highlights Founder’s workshop on Nonfiction Storytelling Nov. 4-8 in Boyds Mills, PA. As a bonus, my BFF and critique partner, Carmen Oliver attended as well. It was so great to share the experience with a friend and so valuable to share it with a colleague. Though our particular workshop… Read more »

Kate DiCamillo

Son and I had the pleasure to meet Kate DiCamillo at her recent book signing in our home town. Kate was funny, charming, and so very willing to take a few minutes to answer my burning questions: *No, she doesn’t outline her novels before she writes. She just lets her muse guide her. She calls… Read more »