Nancy Kelly Allen's Blog, page 25
June 8, 2014
Writing a Middle Grade Novel/Call for Submissions
Today, I’m continuing the series, Writing a Middle Grade Novel.
Description is used to enhance fictional stories. Check out the following ways:
Descriptive scenes move the plot. Action verbs, such as dashed and darted often work better than run because they are more specific. The more specific we are with our word choice, the more vivid the picture we paint with words. Abstract words are difficult to visualize and leave the reader feeling confused. Concrete, specific words give the reader an image to grasp.
Concrete images create three-dimensional pictures in which the reader can experience the action, setting, event, or subject matter. Think of it as describing a tornado touchdown. Add details that make the reader feel as if he is actually witnessing the scene, feeling the highly charged air, hearing the roar, seeing the destruction, and feeling the flying debris.
Mood and tone are affected by description. A sadness charged through Jessie like a runaway train. Or Her smile, like the sun, lit up the garden.
Description allows the writer to develop a rhythm with words that plays throughout the story. About 90% of the story will be action and dialog and 10% description. Call for Submissions for Adult Writers: The Book Smugglers Publishing: We Want Your Short Stories. What we’re looking for: DIVERSITY. We want to read and publish short stories that reflect the diverse world we live in, about and from traditionally underrepresented perspectives. Middle Grade, Young Adult, and Adult audience submissions are welcome. Good speculative fiction is ageless! Creativity & Subversion. We love subversive stories. We want you to challenge the status quo with your characters, storytelling technique, and themes.Submission guidelines at:http://thebooksmugglers.com/2014/05/a...
Description is used to enhance fictional stories. Check out the following ways:
Descriptive scenes move the plot. Action verbs, such as dashed and darted often work better than run because they are more specific. The more specific we are with our word choice, the more vivid the picture we paint with words. Abstract words are difficult to visualize and leave the reader feeling confused. Concrete, specific words give the reader an image to grasp.
Concrete images create three-dimensional pictures in which the reader can experience the action, setting, event, or subject matter. Think of it as describing a tornado touchdown. Add details that make the reader feel as if he is actually witnessing the scene, feeling the highly charged air, hearing the roar, seeing the destruction, and feeling the flying debris.
Mood and tone are affected by description. A sadness charged through Jessie like a runaway train. Or Her smile, like the sun, lit up the garden.
Description allows the writer to develop a rhythm with words that plays throughout the story. About 90% of the story will be action and dialog and 10% description. Call for Submissions for Adult Writers: The Book Smugglers Publishing: We Want Your Short Stories. What we’re looking for: DIVERSITY. We want to read and publish short stories that reflect the diverse world we live in, about and from traditionally underrepresented perspectives. Middle Grade, Young Adult, and Adult audience submissions are welcome. Good speculative fiction is ageless! Creativity & Subversion. We love subversive stories. We want you to challenge the status quo with your characters, storytelling technique, and themes.Submission guidelines at:http://thebooksmugglers.com/2014/05/a...
June 1, 2014
Writing a Middle Grade Novel, part 12/Calls for Submissions
Today, I’m continuing the series, Writing a Middle Grade Novel.
Description is used to enhance fictional stories. Check out the following ways:
Description is a major factor in voice, that elusive quality all editors rank as the number one aspect they are looking for in writing. The narrative, either first person (I) or third person (he/she), usually begins with a description of action. This imaginative observation is essential to all stories. Rain fell is a simple description but doesn’t do much to add interest. Kentucky rain smells different from Chicago rain. That sentence makes us stop and ponder.
Words that surprise us add to descriptive narrative. I like the word ponder. It’s not used that often in today’s speech so it catches the reader’s ear.
The pacing of the story is affected by description. Long passages slow down the action. He strolled down the lane beneath the canopy of trees that formed a green tunnel and offered cool comfort from the hot afternoon sun. Short phrases and sentences speed up the pace. Horses paced. Clippity clop. Clippity clop.
Next week, I’ll give more tips on writing descriptive passages.
Call for Submissions for Young Writers:
[I will resume Submissions for Young Writers in September]
Call for Submissions for Adult Writers: Thriving Family editorial team's most recent call for submissions. If you are new to our publication, you may want to know more about Thriving Family by ordering a free subscriptionor downloading a free digital edition. You can also download our writers' guidelines and a themes' list.
Theme: Christmas conflict and teens—in relation to extended family.
Word Count: 750-800 words (including any possible sidebars)
Rights: First nonexclusive rights
Payment: $250, on acceptance
Due date: June 17, 2014
Audience: Parents of teens
Byline: Yes
Acceptance or Rejection: The Focus on the Family editors appreciate your submission. If your article was not accepted by 7/1/14, it was not chosen for publication. We hope to work with you on a different article at a later time.
Submit to: Teen.Phases@fotf.org <mailto:Teen.Phases@fotf.org> with "Attn: Ginger—Christmas conflicts and teens" in the subject line.
Submission guidelines at http://www.thrivingfamily.com/extra/c...
May 25, 2014
Writing a Middle Grade Novel/Call for Submissions
Today, I’m continuing the series, Writing a Middle Grade Novel.We want our readers to be “there.” To feel the excitement, the wind, the joy, the fear, and more in the journey of the character. Descriptive passages create an illusion. The illusion of reality pulls the reader into the middle of the action and holds the reader there through the last page. Description is the image-making power of the story. It engages the reader by making the characters and action seem real.
The setting may seem unimportant compared to character, plot, and voice, but descriptive setting enhance the realism. In mysteries, frightful settings play a critical role if sights, sounds, smells, taste, and touch are conveyed through sensory details. Touch can send goosebumps down a reader’s spine if the character is in a scary setting and something bumps him. Fog or smoke can blur the character’s vision and make the setting creepier or seem more dangerous. Portraying a specific locale with sensory descriptors allows the writer to make a setting appear so real the reader can almost step into the pages of the book.
In Amazing Grace, I wrote:
Riding shotgun suited me fine. I loved to perch in the front seat by the driver. Besides, I was on the lookout for something. As we rounded a curve on Route 23 past Louisa, a row of Burma Shave signs popped into view. I read the signs to Johnny:
Don’t stick
Your elbow
Out so far
It might go home
In another car.
In writing this scene, my goal was to transport the reader back in time to some of America’s first roadside billboards, the Burma Shave signs.
Next week, I’ll give more tips on writing descriptive passages.
[I will resume Call for Submissions for Young Writers in September.]
Call for Submissions for Adult Writers: The Wolfe Pack's Black Orchid Novella Award. Recommended free contest gives $1,000 and publication in Alfred Hitchcock's Mystery Magazine for the best traditional mystery novella. Contest sponsor The Wolfe Pack is the official fan club for Nero Wolfe, a legendary fictional sleuth created by Rex Stout in a series of mystery novels published from 1934 to 1975. Entries should be 15,000-20,000 words. See website for thematic and stylistic restrictions. Essentially, they are looking for an old-fashioned story of deduction, with a witty style and an engaging relationship between the characters, and no explicit sex or violence. Deadline May 31Guidelines at http://www.nerowolfe.org/htm/literary_awards/black_orchid_award/Black_Orchid_award_proc.htm
May 18, 2014
Writing a Middle Grade Novel, part 12/Calls for Submissions
Middle grade fiction needs a character arc. The character arc is the growth of the character from the beginning to the middle to the end of the story. Begin with a likable character. Place that character in a situation that is so challenging it seems s/he may forever be doomed. Allow the character to try and fail different attempts to alleviate the situation. By the end of the story, the character achieves the worthwhile goal and through the journey is changed. The change in the character throughout the story is the arc.
One character arc is called the Hero’s Journey. In this type, the character is someone who seems unlikely to ever achieve his/her goal. By the end of the story the character undergoes a radical transformation to become a hero.Another type is the Growth Arc in which the character finds inner strength to overcome some fear, to challenge someone or face head-on a situation that s/he would never have done at the beginning of the story. The change is less dramatic than the Hero’s Journey.A character arc that is seldom seen in middle grade novels is the Tragedy Arc. The character dies or declines (emotionally, physically). Most of the stories in children’s literature have a happy ending with the main character resolving a conflict or ends with the reader having hope that the situation will improve.Call for Submissions for Young Writers:Young Voices of America Contest. Students in Grades K-12 are invited to participate. Remember this is a short story contest. We are looking fiction. Make the story come to life on the page. It can be Mystery, Sci/Fi, Comedy, Romance, Young Adult, etc. write it in any genre' you choose as long as you comply with the rules.
Deadline: midnight, June 30, 2014
Submission guidelines at http://www.youngvoicesfoundation.org/Call for Submissions for Adult Writers: Pockets Fiction Contest. Stories 750-1000 words. No set theme. Prize: $500 and publication. Postal submissions.
Deadline August 15
Submission guidelines at http://pockets.upperroom.org/write-for-us/annual-fiction-contest/
One character arc is called the Hero’s Journey. In this type, the character is someone who seems unlikely to ever achieve his/her goal. By the end of the story the character undergoes a radical transformation to become a hero.Another type is the Growth Arc in which the character finds inner strength to overcome some fear, to challenge someone or face head-on a situation that s/he would never have done at the beginning of the story. The change is less dramatic than the Hero’s Journey.A character arc that is seldom seen in middle grade novels is the Tragedy Arc. The character dies or declines (emotionally, physically). Most of the stories in children’s literature have a happy ending with the main character resolving a conflict or ends with the reader having hope that the situation will improve.Call for Submissions for Young Writers:Young Voices of America Contest. Students in Grades K-12 are invited to participate. Remember this is a short story contest. We are looking fiction. Make the story come to life on the page. It can be Mystery, Sci/Fi, Comedy, Romance, Young Adult, etc. write it in any genre' you choose as long as you comply with the rules.
Deadline: midnight, June 30, 2014
Submission guidelines at http://www.youngvoicesfoundation.org/Call for Submissions for Adult Writers: Pockets Fiction Contest. Stories 750-1000 words. No set theme. Prize: $500 and publication. Postal submissions.
Deadline August 15
Submission guidelines at http://pockets.upperroom.org/write-for-us/annual-fiction-contest/
May 11, 2014
Writing a Middle Grade Novel, part 11/Calls for Submissions
Today, I’m resuming the series,Writing a Middle Grade Novel.
AMAZING GRACE, my first middle grade novel, was just released. This book’s road to publication is somewhat unusual in a couple of ways. First, the story began as a picture book but the subject matter was too advanced for that age group. I rewrote it as a chapter book. Again, the subject matter worked better for an older reader. What can writers learn from this? Know your audience. When writing, imagine a particular age, or even a particular child. As you write, continually ask yourself, does this (dialog, character action, word choice, plot) work for my audience. The second unusual aspect of the book is the length of time—15 years—the story percolated in my mind. I began the book 15 years ago. That’s right, fifteen loooooong years ago. I never gave up on the story but it took me years to learn how to write it. What can writers learn from this? Perseverance is the key to a successful career in writing. Don’t give up. I’ve seen so many writers work hard and through the process begin to excel, only to become so frustrated with rejection, then quit writing. For years, I’ve written picture books and now have 30+ published. I love writing for that age group, but it’s also fun and an exciting learning experience to move away from my comfort zone and write for an entirely different audience. If we try writing in a genre new to us or for a difference audience, we’ll grow as writers.Call for Submissions for Young Writers:Storybird. Your words. Our art. Amazing stories. Simple tools help you build books in minutes. Let the art inspire and surprise you as you write. Readers will encourage you along the way.
Submission guidelines at http://storybird.com/Call for Submissions for Adult Writers:
Clarkesworld Magazine is a Hugo Award-winning science fiction and fantasy magazine that publishes short stories, interviews, articles and audio fiction. We are currently open for art, non-fiction and short story submissions.Submission guidelines at http://clarkesworldmagazine.com/submi...
AMAZING GRACE, my first middle grade novel, was just released. This book’s road to publication is somewhat unusual in a couple of ways. First, the story began as a picture book but the subject matter was too advanced for that age group. I rewrote it as a chapter book. Again, the subject matter worked better for an older reader. What can writers learn from this? Know your audience. When writing, imagine a particular age, or even a particular child. As you write, continually ask yourself, does this (dialog, character action, word choice, plot) work for my audience. The second unusual aspect of the book is the length of time—15 years—the story percolated in my mind. I began the book 15 years ago. That’s right, fifteen loooooong years ago. I never gave up on the story but it took me years to learn how to write it. What can writers learn from this? Perseverance is the key to a successful career in writing. Don’t give up. I’ve seen so many writers work hard and through the process begin to excel, only to become so frustrated with rejection, then quit writing. For years, I’ve written picture books and now have 30+ published. I love writing for that age group, but it’s also fun and an exciting learning experience to move away from my comfort zone and write for an entirely different audience. If we try writing in a genre new to us or for a difference audience, we’ll grow as writers.Call for Submissions for Young Writers:Storybird. Your words. Our art. Amazing stories. Simple tools help you build books in minutes. Let the art inspire and surprise you as you write. Readers will encourage you along the way.Submission guidelines at http://storybird.com/Call for Submissions for Adult Writers:
Clarkesworld Magazine is a Hugo Award-winning science fiction and fantasy magazine that publishes short stories, interviews, articles and audio fiction. We are currently open for art, non-fiction and short story submissions.Submission guidelines at http://clarkesworldmagazine.com/submi...
May 4, 2014
Publishing Trends/Calls for Submissions
What are editors and agents looking for in 2014? Let’s look at “what’s hot” and “what’s not” in the literary world of children’s publishing.
What’s HOT:Mysteries. They have been for years and continue the trend. Kid moves from comfortable surroundings to that of a distant relativePicture books that extol the power of the imaginationCharacter-driven middle grade fictionFunny, quirky charactersHumorNonfiction for Pre-K and TeenYoung Adult contemporary fictionWhat’s NOT:VampiresParanormal Sword-and-sorcery fantasyWerewolvesAngelsRhyming picture booksThe market is saturated with books focusing on these “What’s NOT” topics. That doesn’t mean that your story will be rejected. If your manuscript is different enough, it will stand out. The recommended story for you to write is the story you want to write. Study the market, especially in the genre of your story so you can add your own unique twist to the tale.Call for submissions for young writers:
One Story started with the idea of celebrating the short story form by showcasing just one short story per issue. That was twelve years ago, and the journey has been tremendous. So a year ago, the idea was hatched to start a second magazine--one geared solely to young adult fiction. That became One Teen Story.
What’s particularly exciting about One Teen Story is that it’s the only regular venue out there for young adult short stories. That’s a tremendous thing. There are plenty of talented writers--both established and emerging--who are writing YA fiction in the short form, and they had no regular place to submit their work until OTS opened its doors. Now we’re seeing a lot of fantastic submissions and publishing wonderful short stories that have teen protagonists.
Submission guidelines at http://www.yvonneventresca.com/1/post/2013/12/teen-tuesday-write-like-a-rabbit-revise-like-a-turtle.htmlCall for submissions for adult writers: East of the Web is a slick site dedicated to new, previously unpublished fiction, as well as to classic short stories. East of the Web is keen to provide exposure for writers by offering them a place where their work will be seen and read in a high quality, respected setting. The site receives about half a million unique visitors per month, so successful submissions are likely to be viewed by more readers than in almost any other short story publication. In addition, the site receives attention from agents, the press, film makers, schools, universities and other publishers.
Note that our editorial standards are high and we do not publish all the submissions we receive. If necessary, editors work with authors of successful submissions prior to placing the story on the site.Submission guidelines at http://www.eastoftheweb.com/short-stories/Publishing.htmlNext week, I’ll resume my “Writing a Middle Grade Novel” series.
What’s HOT:Mysteries. They have been for years and continue the trend. Kid moves from comfortable surroundings to that of a distant relativePicture books that extol the power of the imaginationCharacter-driven middle grade fictionFunny, quirky charactersHumorNonfiction for Pre-K and TeenYoung Adult contemporary fictionWhat’s NOT:VampiresParanormal Sword-and-sorcery fantasyWerewolvesAngelsRhyming picture booksThe market is saturated with books focusing on these “What’s NOT” topics. That doesn’t mean that your story will be rejected. If your manuscript is different enough, it will stand out. The recommended story for you to write is the story you want to write. Study the market, especially in the genre of your story so you can add your own unique twist to the tale.Call for submissions for young writers:
One Story started with the idea of celebrating the short story form by showcasing just one short story per issue. That was twelve years ago, and the journey has been tremendous. So a year ago, the idea was hatched to start a second magazine--one geared solely to young adult fiction. That became One Teen Story.
What’s particularly exciting about One Teen Story is that it’s the only regular venue out there for young adult short stories. That’s a tremendous thing. There are plenty of talented writers--both established and emerging--who are writing YA fiction in the short form, and they had no regular place to submit their work until OTS opened its doors. Now we’re seeing a lot of fantastic submissions and publishing wonderful short stories that have teen protagonists.
Submission guidelines at http://www.yvonneventresca.com/1/post/2013/12/teen-tuesday-write-like-a-rabbit-revise-like-a-turtle.htmlCall for submissions for adult writers: East of the Web is a slick site dedicated to new, previously unpublished fiction, as well as to classic short stories. East of the Web is keen to provide exposure for writers by offering them a place where their work will be seen and read in a high quality, respected setting. The site receives about half a million unique visitors per month, so successful submissions are likely to be viewed by more readers than in almost any other short story publication. In addition, the site receives attention from agents, the press, film makers, schools, universities and other publishers.
Note that our editorial standards are high and we do not publish all the submissions we receive. If necessary, editors work with authors of successful submissions prior to placing the story on the site.Submission guidelines at http://www.eastoftheweb.com/short-stories/Publishing.htmlNext week, I’ll resume my “Writing a Middle Grade Novel” series.
April 27, 2014
Illustrator Alison Davis Lyne/Calls for Submissions
Alison Davis Lyne is back with me today. Alison is an extremely talented illustrator with ten picture books in her resumé, plus she edits the ART TIPS column for the SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators) newsletter.
We had so much fun Saturday at the Southern Kentucky Book Festival in Bowling Green. Fortunately, Alison and I were seated near each other so we had lots of time to chat about illustrating, writing and publishing, three of our favorite subjects. And we loved meeting and talking with those who stopped by.
Here's Alison surrounded by some of the books she illustrated with her talented touch.
Alison and I are in model mode as her husband snaps the shot. Thanks, Frank.NKA:Alison, you’re a professional all the way. Tell us about your latest project and how staying busy keeps you out of trouble.
ADL: Work keeps me busy, but trouble…it sneaks up on me, anyway. My latest alphabet picture book, G is for Grits: A Southern Alphabet by Nikole Brooks Bethea published by Pelican Publishing, is a great example of that genre. In Nikki's text for each letter, she gave me two to four different kinds of items/concepts to illustrate. My job was to sketch images of those items, in a pleasing and informative setting......anything from alligators to yams, in a “southern style” of course.
[image error] NKA: You came through with flying colors (pardon the pun) with this illustration. I see so much movement in the book cover. ADL: Thanks, Nancy. I appreciate your comments. Since I've “said my alphabet in picture book form” three times before (Easter Day Alphabet, Halloween Alphabet and Thanksgiving Day Alphabet, all from Pelican), I was pretty sure that the arrangement of this alphabet book would follow the same style.....25 single pages, one for each letter, with one “double page spread”, all of which start on page 5. One of the letters I had the most fun with was “O”. Nikki's lively southern style text called for okra, oak tree, overalls and relating “old ways”. Whew! That's a LOT of stuff to show in just one scene, plus leave room for the text and the actual letter “O”. You can see how I handled it below:
[image error]
NKA: It's so interesting to learn how illustrators approach a text. I love how you incorporated the four elements into the illustration in a way that will resonate with young readers.
ADL: Thanks. Illustrating an alphabet book is a wonderful opportunity to “challenge” myself to see just how many different people and settings I can come up with, all within an established format for that particular alphabet book.
NKA:Congratulations on your most recent books,G is for Grits: A Southern Alphabet and Little Things Aren't Little When You're Little. These two picture books are available at brick and mortar bookstores and thru Pelican Publishing Company or your favorite online bookseller.
Illustrations carry the story beyond that of the text, and I love learning how illustrators develop ideas for art based on the text of the writer. You are extremely talented, Alison. I can see why Pelican keeps returning to you for illustrations in their picture books. Thanks so much for visiting my blog. I look forward to having you return and wish you the best in your illustrating career.
To see more about Alison's published books please visit http://www.lyneart.com/CHILDREN.HTM
To see more of Alison's artwork please visit http://www.lyneart.com
To see more about Alison's art and art techniques please visit Alison's blog http://lyneartblog.blogspot.com
Call for Submissions for Young Writers:
Parallel Ink is your friendly international e-magazine for students, by students between the ages of 12 to 18 years old. Besides sci-fi serials and fantasy fables, we welcome poignant poetry, quirky rants, discarded love letters, and offbeat text exchanges with open arms (among many other countless gems of literature teens write). Honestly, anything goes if it's well-written, captivating, and ready for sending out into the world wide web! Take a look at our past issues on the Archives page.
Being open-minded global citizens is a big part of our magazine. Parallel Ink, also fondly called Pi or PI, is a voluntary, non-profit publication. It's run by three high schoolers, each living in a different country, who remain very good friends to this day. Submission guidelines at http://parallel-ink.webs.com/submitCall for Submissions for Adult Writers:Xiaoduo Median, a publisher based in both New York and Beijing is looking for children’s authors. We currently publish three monthly magazines and assortment of book series for age 6 to 14. For the magazine "Ask You Ask Me":
We are interested in articles rich in scientific accuracy and lively approaches to the subject at hand. The inclusion of primary research (interviews with scientists focusing on current research) are of primary interest to the magazine.
Feature Articles: Up to 1000 words. Includes: in-depth nonfiction articles. (An interactive approach is a definite plus!) Q & A interviews, plays, and biographies are of interest as well
Fiction: up to 1,000 words. Includes: science-related stories, poems, science fiction, retold legends, etc., relating to the theme.
Activities: up to 750 words. Includes: critical thinking activities, experiments, models, science fair projects, astrophotography projects, and any other science projects that can either be done by children alone, with adult supervision, or in a classroom setting. Query should be accompanied by sketches and description of how activity relates to theme.
Submission guidelines at http://www.xiaoduo.com.cn/news/index.php?action-viewnews-itemid-18882-php-1
Next week, I’ll focus on the latest trends in children’s publishing.
April 20, 2014
Today, I have children’s book illustrator Alison Davis Ly...
Today, I have children’s book illustrator Alison Davis Lyne back as my guest. She has illustrated 10 titles for Pelican Publishing and edits the ART TIPS column for the SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators) newsletter. That’s quite a resumé, and I’m thrilled to have her here.
NKA: Welcome back, Alison. You have illustrated both concept/story books and alphabet books. What are the illustrating challenges with these two very different kinds of picture books?
ADL: Hi Nancy. Thanks SO much for inviting me back to your lovely blog for another chat.
I've been lucky to illustrate many different kinds of books for children.
My most recent project for Pelican Publishing is a more of a concept book, Little Things Aren't Little When You're Little by Mark Burrows. Mark's lyrical text (he also writes songs!) tells different episodes in a child's life where things that seem little to adults are really a “big deal” to children. Mark's manuscript had, after the opening/intro stanza, 13 separate scenes, each had a child engaging in a described action, with the refrain: “Little things aren't little when you're little.”
If your readers remember from my last visit, in our chat about spreading out text over the 32 pages of a book, they can easily see that Mark had indeed “done his homework” in how he set things up. The text starts on page 5, which leaves 13 “double page spreads” to illustrate each stanza. (A “double spread” is what the reader sees left to right when the book is opened, with the action being carried over both pages). With a bit-o-artistic license, I rearranged things just a teensy bit and went to work on planning the illustrations.
For some reason, one of the middle stanzas describing a young child's first hair cut struck a cord, and I began my sketching there. I remembered an old commercial where a small boy is tearfully getting his first hair cut in an old fashioned barber chair. I got to wondering what would happen if that small boy started wiggling when the elderly barber started trimming. And instead of “taking a little off the top” the barber got a huge swath right across the little boy's head. In reaction the little boy might slide off the huge barber chair and put his hands over the newly bald spot. I couldn't help but “draw” parallels between the elderly barber's, and the grandfather's bald heads and the child's newly shorn head. As a running joke, throughout the rest of the book, the little boy appears with his “reverse mohawk”. Here's how the page spread came out....
Illustrating this kind of book is really a lot of fun....I can make up characters and settings to give my own kind of “flavor” to the lively text.
NKA: Alison, you’ve helped us writers better understand how a picture book needs to be written to allow for the illustrations to be added to the text. We definitely need to write with the idea of action that takes place over 13-14 spreads. Thanks for your explanation and for explaining how you develop ideas for working with the text of a picture book.
Alison is returning next week to discuss her latest project. To see more about her published books, please visit http://www.lyneart.com/CHILDREN.HTM
To see more of Alison's artwork, please visit http://www.lyneart.com
To see more about Alison's art and art techniques, please visit Alison's blog http://lyneartblog.blogspot.com
Call for Submissions for Young Writers:
Norman Mailer High School Writing Awards: Highly recommended free contest for creative nonfiction by currently enrolled high school students awards $2,500 and a trip to NYC for the award ceremony. Contest is co-sponsored by the National Council of Teachers of English and the Norman Mailer Writers Colony. Submit one or more entries, maximum 10 single-spaced pages total, through their online form. Sponsored by: National Council of Teachers of EnglishDeadline 4/30/2014Submissions Guidelines at http://www.ncte.org/awards/student/nmwaCall for Submissions for Adult Writers:CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS: ONLINE ART & LITERARY JOURNAL
It’s time to share your story. Waypoints is accepting poetry, fiction, art and photography submissions for our inaugural issue. We’re looking for the best from established and up-and-coming writers and artists. Submissions should include writing and artwork that embodies a sense of what the artist has encountered on her or his personal journey. Waypoints will appear semi-annually, featuring the best work of established and emerging writers and artists. Published work is eligible for the Editor’s Choice award.
Deadline May 1.
Submission guidelines at http://www.waypointsmag.com/.
NKA: Welcome back, Alison. You have illustrated both concept/story books and alphabet books. What are the illustrating challenges with these two very different kinds of picture books?
ADL: Hi Nancy. Thanks SO much for inviting me back to your lovely blog for another chat.
I've been lucky to illustrate many different kinds of books for children.
My most recent project for Pelican Publishing is a more of a concept book, Little Things Aren't Little When You're Little by Mark Burrows. Mark's lyrical text (he also writes songs!) tells different episodes in a child's life where things that seem little to adults are really a “big deal” to children. Mark's manuscript had, after the opening/intro stanza, 13 separate scenes, each had a child engaging in a described action, with the refrain: “Little things aren't little when you're little.”
If your readers remember from my last visit, in our chat about spreading out text over the 32 pages of a book, they can easily see that Mark had indeed “done his homework” in how he set things up. The text starts on page 5, which leaves 13 “double page spreads” to illustrate each stanza. (A “double spread” is what the reader sees left to right when the book is opened, with the action being carried over both pages). With a bit-o-artistic license, I rearranged things just a teensy bit and went to work on planning the illustrations. For some reason, one of the middle stanzas describing a young child's first hair cut struck a cord, and I began my sketching there. I remembered an old commercial where a small boy is tearfully getting his first hair cut in an old fashioned barber chair. I got to wondering what would happen if that small boy started wiggling when the elderly barber started trimming. And instead of “taking a little off the top” the barber got a huge swath right across the little boy's head. In reaction the little boy might slide off the huge barber chair and put his hands over the newly bald spot. I couldn't help but “draw” parallels between the elderly barber's, and the grandfather's bald heads and the child's newly shorn head. As a running joke, throughout the rest of the book, the little boy appears with his “reverse mohawk”. Here's how the page spread came out....
Illustrating this kind of book is really a lot of fun....I can make up characters and settings to give my own kind of “flavor” to the lively text.
NKA: Alison, you’ve helped us writers better understand how a picture book needs to be written to allow for the illustrations to be added to the text. We definitely need to write with the idea of action that takes place over 13-14 spreads. Thanks for your explanation and for explaining how you develop ideas for working with the text of a picture book.
Alison is returning next week to discuss her latest project. To see more about her published books, please visit http://www.lyneart.com/CHILDREN.HTM
To see more of Alison's artwork, please visit http://www.lyneart.com
To see more about Alison's art and art techniques, please visit Alison's blog http://lyneartblog.blogspot.com
Call for Submissions for Young Writers:
Norman Mailer High School Writing Awards: Highly recommended free contest for creative nonfiction by currently enrolled high school students awards $2,500 and a trip to NYC for the award ceremony. Contest is co-sponsored by the National Council of Teachers of English and the Norman Mailer Writers Colony. Submit one or more entries, maximum 10 single-spaced pages total, through their online form. Sponsored by: National Council of Teachers of EnglishDeadline 4/30/2014Submissions Guidelines at http://www.ncte.org/awards/student/nmwaCall for Submissions for Adult Writers:CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS: ONLINE ART & LITERARY JOURNAL
It’s time to share your story. Waypoints is accepting poetry, fiction, art and photography submissions for our inaugural issue. We’re looking for the best from established and up-and-coming writers and artists. Submissions should include writing and artwork that embodies a sense of what the artist has encountered on her or his personal journey. Waypoints will appear semi-annually, featuring the best work of established and emerging writers and artists. Published work is eligible for the Editor’s Choice award.
Deadline May 1.
Submission guidelines at http://www.waypointsmag.com/.
April 13, 2014
Penny Lockwood Ehrenkranz-Guest Editor/Calls for Submissions
Welcome back, Penny Lockwood Ehrenkranz. Penny is a writer with a remarkable publishing history. She has written hundreds of articles as well as books for children and adults. These include a beautiful picture book, BOO’S BAD DAY and an interesting young adult short story collection, A PAST AND A FUTURE. Plus, she is an editor. Today, I’m so happy to have Penny as a guest editor
In your role as an editor, what are some specific elements in a manuscript that makes you say Ah-ha! this story works and what make a great book?First off, I’d like to point out a many publishing houses are specializing in specific genres. For example, Tor publishes a lot of fantasy, while others look for different genres. Writers need to look closely at guidelines and publishers’ catalogs before submitting material for consideration. A list of children’s publishers such as the one at http://www.everywritersresource.com/childrensbookpublishers.htmlindicates even among these publishers, there are requests for certain types of literature such as: picture books, middle grade, young adult, Christian, Caribbean, Native American, historical, or non-fiction.In my role as editor, I’ve seen all kinds of submissions from ones making me want to see more from the author to those making me wonder why a writer thought the story was worth submitting. This seems particularly true of children’s authors. For some reason, writers think crafting a story for children is easy. Unfortunately, just because the story is shorter, it isn’t necessarily easier to write.The first things I look for in a book are good grammar, correct spelling, and proper sentence structure. Then, I’m interested in character development and characters for whom I can cheer. If the main characters are too perfect or have no redeeming qualities, I’m not going to care about them. I want to read a strong hook at the beginning of the book. The author should jump right into the action, rather than give a detailed description of the main character’s hometown. Then, I’m looking for a strong plot with obstacles for the characters to overcome. Even in a short picture book, there should be at least three challenges for the main character. These challenges should help the character grow before the conclusion of the story. The story should move forward smoothly with transitions from chapter to chapter urging the reader to turn the page. The book should have a logical conclusion arrived at through a series of plausible events. Throughout the story, I expect tight writing. An author who relies on weak adjectives or adverbs instead of strong nouns and verbs needs to work harder on her craft. Good dialogue is important, and the author should try not to use clever words to express the word “said.” Said after dialogue is skimmed over by the reader. With the character’s name attached: Jane said, the reader knows who said the words but isn’t interrupted, as he would be reading: Jane admonished. If the author wants to avoid using said all the time, the other option would be action tags: Jane shook her finger at Paul. Obviously, before submitting, authors need to know their genre and what works or doesn’t. Someone writing an historical novel should be aware of what happens in the era in which the story is set. You can’t just guess at what is appropriate. Research is imperative for the story to ring true. The tiniest mistake can take a reader out of the story. Something as simple as having someone look at a book of Shakespeare when the story’s setting is 1492 will cause the reader to put the book down. An author writing fantasy needs to create a believable world and be sure the rules of magic are consistent and have consequences. A wizard can’t go around throwing spells without preparation or training. A middle grade novel shouldn’t have the parents solving the problems of the young protagonists.I’m not sure if there is ever an “ah ha” moment for me. When assessing a book for acquisition, I have to put aside my personal tastes (which tend to lean toward fantasy, science fiction, and paranormal) and look for a well-written book submitted by an author who took the time to read through the publisher’s guidelines and look at other books in the publisher’s catalog.Nancy, thank you for hosting me on your blog. You asked a couple of great questions, and I hope I’ve been able to aid some of your readers in their quest to become published authors. More about me and my work can be found at http://pennylockwoodehrenkranz.yolasite.comand at my blog http://pennylockwoodehrenkranz.blogspot.com/Penny, you’ve given us a ton of great information. Thanks, Penny, for visiting on my blog. I wish you much success with your books and your work as an editor.Alison Davis Lyne is visiting this blog again with more illustrations tips for writers. I don't illustrate, but I write picture books with the illustrator in mind. Call for Submissions for Young Writers:Creative Kids Magazine. We are looking for the very best material by students (ages 8–16). Material may include cartoons, songs, stories between 500 and 1200 words, puzzles, photographs, artwork, games, editorials, poetry, and plays, as well as any other creative work that can fit in the pages of the magazine.All work must be original. Upon acceptance of a work, we will request that a legal guardian sign our standard contract granting copyright permission. The contract will be mailed with notification of acceptance.Work may be submitted by the author, parent, or teacher. Each piece must be labeled with the child’s name, birthday, grade, school, and home address, and must include a cover letter.Submission guidelines at http://www.ckmagazine.org/submissions/Call for Submissions for Adult Writers:Youth Imagination is interested in creative fiction stories by teens as well as by adult authors. Make the stories awesome, inspiring and engaging. Our goal is to publish the best writing for and by teens. We particularly love stories exploring the issues, such as bullying, drugs, romance, school, parental issues, teacher issues, etc., as well as about the grit and character of teens and young adults.We accept most genres of fiction, including modern, urban or classical fantasy, as well as sci-fi, slipstream, literary, action-adventure or suspense.Submission guidelines at http://www.youthimagination.org/index.php/publish/submissions
In your role as an editor, what are some specific elements in a manuscript that makes you say Ah-ha! this story works and what make a great book?First off, I’d like to point out a many publishing houses are specializing in specific genres. For example, Tor publishes a lot of fantasy, while others look for different genres. Writers need to look closely at guidelines and publishers’ catalogs before submitting material for consideration. A list of children’s publishers such as the one at http://www.everywritersresource.com/childrensbookpublishers.htmlindicates even among these publishers, there are requests for certain types of literature such as: picture books, middle grade, young adult, Christian, Caribbean, Native American, historical, or non-fiction.In my role as editor, I’ve seen all kinds of submissions from ones making me want to see more from the author to those making me wonder why a writer thought the story was worth submitting. This seems particularly true of children’s authors. For some reason, writers think crafting a story for children is easy. Unfortunately, just because the story is shorter, it isn’t necessarily easier to write.The first things I look for in a book are good grammar, correct spelling, and proper sentence structure. Then, I’m interested in character development and characters for whom I can cheer. If the main characters are too perfect or have no redeeming qualities, I’m not going to care about them. I want to read a strong hook at the beginning of the book. The author should jump right into the action, rather than give a detailed description of the main character’s hometown. Then, I’m looking for a strong plot with obstacles for the characters to overcome. Even in a short picture book, there should be at least three challenges for the main character. These challenges should help the character grow before the conclusion of the story. The story should move forward smoothly with transitions from chapter to chapter urging the reader to turn the page. The book should have a logical conclusion arrived at through a series of plausible events. Throughout the story, I expect tight writing. An author who relies on weak adjectives or adverbs instead of strong nouns and verbs needs to work harder on her craft. Good dialogue is important, and the author should try not to use clever words to express the word “said.” Said after dialogue is skimmed over by the reader. With the character’s name attached: Jane said, the reader knows who said the words but isn’t interrupted, as he would be reading: Jane admonished. If the author wants to avoid using said all the time, the other option would be action tags: Jane shook her finger at Paul. Obviously, before submitting, authors need to know their genre and what works or doesn’t. Someone writing an historical novel should be aware of what happens in the era in which the story is set. You can’t just guess at what is appropriate. Research is imperative for the story to ring true. The tiniest mistake can take a reader out of the story. Something as simple as having someone look at a book of Shakespeare when the story’s setting is 1492 will cause the reader to put the book down. An author writing fantasy needs to create a believable world and be sure the rules of magic are consistent and have consequences. A wizard can’t go around throwing spells without preparation or training. A middle grade novel shouldn’t have the parents solving the problems of the young protagonists.I’m not sure if there is ever an “ah ha” moment for me. When assessing a book for acquisition, I have to put aside my personal tastes (which tend to lean toward fantasy, science fiction, and paranormal) and look for a well-written book submitted by an author who took the time to read through the publisher’s guidelines and look at other books in the publisher’s catalog.Nancy, thank you for hosting me on your blog. You asked a couple of great questions, and I hope I’ve been able to aid some of your readers in their quest to become published authors. More about me and my work can be found at http://pennylockwoodehrenkranz.yolasite.comand at my blog http://pennylockwoodehrenkranz.blogspot.com/Penny, you’ve given us a ton of great information. Thanks, Penny, for visiting on my blog. I wish you much success with your books and your work as an editor.Alison Davis Lyne is visiting this blog again with more illustrations tips for writers. I don't illustrate, but I write picture books with the illustrator in mind. Call for Submissions for Young Writers:Creative Kids Magazine. We are looking for the very best material by students (ages 8–16). Material may include cartoons, songs, stories between 500 and 1200 words, puzzles, photographs, artwork, games, editorials, poetry, and plays, as well as any other creative work that can fit in the pages of the magazine.All work must be original. Upon acceptance of a work, we will request that a legal guardian sign our standard contract granting copyright permission. The contract will be mailed with notification of acceptance.Work may be submitted by the author, parent, or teacher. Each piece must be labeled with the child’s name, birthday, grade, school, and home address, and must include a cover letter.Submission guidelines at http://www.ckmagazine.org/submissions/Call for Submissions for Adult Writers:Youth Imagination is interested in creative fiction stories by teens as well as by adult authors. Make the stories awesome, inspiring and engaging. Our goal is to publish the best writing for and by teens. We particularly love stories exploring the issues, such as bullying, drugs, romance, school, parental issues, teacher issues, etc., as well as about the grit and character of teens and young adults.We accept most genres of fiction, including modern, urban or classical fantasy, as well as sci-fi, slipstream, literary, action-adventure or suspense.Submission guidelines at http://www.youthimagination.org/index.php/publish/submissions
April 6, 2014
Penny Lockwood Ehrenkranz-Guest Author/Calls for Submissions
Penny Lockwood Ehrenkranz is a writer with a remarkable publishing history. She has written hundreds of articles as well as books for children and adults. Plus, she is an editor. Today, I’m so happy to have Penny as a guest author.You have a beautiful picture book, BOO’S BAD DAY and an interesting young adult short story collection, A PAST AND A FUTURE. How do you decide if a topic is better for a picture book or a young adult story?Boo’s Bad Day and the short stories collected in A Past and a Future are at almost opposite ends of the spectrum of books.Boo’s Bad Day is the story of a young black cat that wants to have adventures, rather than be stuck in the house with no one to play with and nothing to do. When he gets a chance, he escapes, only to find that being on his own can be scary. He doesn’t know about fire trucks, snowplows, and loud barking dogs. Each time Boo encounters a new experience, he runs and hides until he finds himself stuck high up in a tree. This story is told from the cat’s perspective and while even adults may need a reminder that life can be scary, animal protagonists work better in books for young to middle grade children.Boo’s Bad Day is published by 4RV Publishing and is available from 4RV for $8.99 including s/h http://www.4rvpublishingcatalog.com/penny-lockwood.phpLook inside at Amazon (prices vary here and is $11.83 right now) http://www.amazon.com/Boos-Bad-Day-Penny-Lockwood/dp/0985266155/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_topThis print book can also be ordered at your local bookstore.A Past and a Future on the other hand is a collection of sixteen stories. The subject matter in each of the stories is not suitable for a young child. While some advanced middle grade readers might be comfortable and able to read these stories, the topics are geared toward the experiences of older readers.As a reader, I enjoy fantasy above all else, however, I also enjoy reading soft non-technological science fiction. When I put the collection together, I decided to include stories from both of these genres. When writing fantasy, it’s important to create a believable story. The reader has to be able to think what you’re writing could happen. They have to suspend their disbelief long enough to be pulled into the story. Although there are fantasy stories for very young readers (think Where the Wild Things Are), my stories do not involve a child as protagonist.
The same is true when I write science fiction. I am not a science person. I don’t understand quantum physics, but I do understand people and relationships. When I write science fiction, I place my characters in a place and time in the future. I write stories not about spacecraft but about how people will interact with each other. Most of my stories have a touch of romance in them, so again, these are not geared toward young children. These are the stories in my collection:
FLIGHT OF THE ROC – Lona is a budding sorceress, but her tutor isn’t too impressed with her skills. When he sends her off to collect a roc’s egg, she finds herself in a heap of trouble. Part of the trouble begins when she meets handsome young Tom. Tom agrees to help her collect the egg, but disaster strikes when the egg hatches. Will Lona chose the roc or Tom?BLURRED VENGEANCE – Vain and aggressive, Temur ignores the warnings of his dream vision, as he seeks vengeance for his father’s death. With his friend and confidant, Jamthrak, Temur rides across the steppes toward town. On the way, unforeseen events cause him to lose focus. He regains his strength and continues on. Once in town, he meets Bota, a buxom woman unlike those of his village. He arranges to bring her back with him to be his first wife. Then, using his skills of magik, stealth, and cunning, he tracks down his father’s murderer. He completes his task, but encounters yet another young woman, Mira…this one a slave. He saves her, but in doing so, causes strife between Bota, Mira, and Jamthrak. He should not have ignored his dead father’s warnings.WHO WILL HEAL THE HEALER – Niane, a young sorceress, is aware of her elderly mentor’s feelings for her, but she cannot return them. She trusts to the Moon Goddess to guide her and Marzan, her mentor, to train her as the next court sorceress. Yet something, deep, dark, and disturbing has taken a part of Marzan. Can she save herself and her mentor when the powers of darkness threaten?ASHLEY OF ASHLAND – Ashley is the younger son of Brandon, Duke of Ashland. His older brother, Gerand, has been betrothed to the lovely Princess Thalia since birth. Unfortunately, Ashley loves Thalia and she him. Gerand is a womanizer and a brute. When they devise a plan to run away, Ashley and Thalia encounter obstacles and terrors, not the least of which is pursuit by Gerand and the king’s troops. Will the plain, younger brother win the hand of the fair princess or be executed as a traitor?THE WATCHER – Zerelda lives in a land of women. As a child, she has a vision wherein she meets and loves a young man. She believes her vision is false. Yet when the man of her vision appears, she is torn. No one has ever told her she is beautiful. No one has ever told her of life outside her community of women. Yet, Prince Ulric does all this and more. Will he cause her to become a betrayer of all she holds dear? Can she be saved?ENCHANTRESS – When Merlin meets young Viviane, a priestess of Avalon, he knows she will be his downfall, but he cannot ignore the pull of love she holds over him. They set out traveling, and as Merlin teaches Viviane more and more magic, he realizes the love he holds for her will destroy him, yet he cannot deny it. Will Merlin come to his senses before he is lost forever?DRAKONI – Torn from her modern day world and thrust into a world of dragons, evil magicians, and handsome elves, will Farah succeed or die trying? In her own world, she is a successful zookeeper working with lizards, but once a freak accident propels her into the land of Draknoll, she finds herself in a field, lost and alone, until Josef, an elf, aids her. With his help, they set off to his village. On the way there, the evil magician, Cor, attacks them and kidnaps Farah. Dragged before the king, she must defend herself and prove she is not who they think she is—a Dragon Woman. Of course, when Drakoni, a great bronze dragon, comes to her rescue, she, herself, begins to doubt who she is. Fortunately, Josef is there to help her embrace not only her new life but her new love, as well.HESHE- Lyda’s stepfather sells her to the highest bidder after her mother dies, leaving her no choice but to flee her captors. To survive, she hides, disguised as a young man. Unfortunately, this disguise backfires when she meets the handsome, talented Garwen, who also has a secret to hide. Will the young noble woman tell her benefactor who she is, or will her pursuers capture her and take her back into slavery?THE BABY MAKERS – In a world where cloning is possible, Reese and his wife, Akira take the chance to have a child they could never have on their own. Unfortunately in their part of the world, the government does not recognize these children as citizens. After the baby is born, Reese and Akira go through the necessary steps to acquire their new child. One of these procedures turns Akira into a robot that will do anything to keep Reese away from the baby. Loving both his wife and child, Reese has to make a decision to keep their family safe and intact. Will he make the right one?3-D PICTURES – Avery sees people in 3-D pictures. The government thinks he is crazy and sends him to a psychiatrist. As he waits in the doctor’s office, the 3-D picture in front of him comes alive. Suddenly a beautiful petite woman appears perched on his lap. She tells him of his destiny and his heritage. Elvina and her people have been waiting for him for many years. Will he go with her through the picture, or allow himself to be “cured?”SCREEN SAVER – Clancy works for an agent, Shianna, who represents the freaks of the world. With all the nuclear fallout, the agency is thriving. Clancy, however, longs to leave his world and travel the stars. The computer program arrives as a demo, promising instant transport. Will it be Clancy’s ticket to survival or a rip-off which brings him to destruction?ISOLATION- The world as we know it is gone. The rich are isolated from the dying poor. Rader and Caryn are fed up with living in isolation, away from fresh air and real food. Rumors abound of places where people can still live. When they meet by accident, they decide to make a break for it. Unfortunately, outside their isolated living quarters, disease, for which they have no immunities, runs rampant. Their mutual attraction and determination keep them going despite the many hazards they face outside the walls. Will Caryn and Rader make the right decisions when they search for freedom?
LOVE IN A DIFFERENT HUE – Chiri and her husband are not on the best of terms. He married her for her connections. Her father is a leader in the robotics field. By marrying Chiri, Tevon was guaranteed a partnership in a very lucrative business. Shunned by her husband, Chiri becomes intrigued by her father’s latest creation, Devro. What would you do if a blue-skinned robot wanted to protect and love you? Chiri isn’t sure until he takes her in his arms.DOWN SO LOW, THE GROUND LOOKS LIKE UP – Sylvan is a telepathic empath and is hired by a mining company to help them ferret out swindlers. Unfortunately, something on her new world made her talents go ballistic. She drinks herself into oblivion to compensate for her psi talents. When Deveneaux finds her, he’s attracted, but he is also on a mission to find his dead brother’s daughter. Can Deveneaux save her from her demons, or will he lock her up for propositioning an officer of the law?REBELS WITH A CAUSE – Shayleena is tired of living her life through holovision. She wants a real life with real people. When she sees an ad for volunteers to help with juvenile offenders, she signs up. She not only finds meaning in her life, but a connection to real people, including Bradon, a visual artist with a dream. Together, they hope to find a future for themselves and for the young people who’ve been thrown away by society.CLOCKWORKS – John lives in Structured. His ancestors came from Upheaval, a country where time means nothing. He decides to take a trip—learn about his history and see Upheaval for himself. What will he do when he tries to trace his roots and finds his structured life is now in chaos? A Past and A Future is available from Alban Lake Publishing: Digital $3.99; Print $12 http://store.albanlake.com/product/a-past-and-a-future/And at Smashwords in digital for $3.99: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/62608You can learn more about me and my other work at http://pennylockwoodehrenkranz.yolasite.comPenny, your stories are captivating. I look forward to your visit next week when you discuss your role as an editor.Call for Submissions for Young Writers:
INSIGHT WRITING CONTEST. Categories are student short story, general short story, and student poetry. Prizes range from $50 to $250. Winning entries will be published in Insight. You must be age 22 or under to enter the student categories. Short stories are limited to seven pages. Poetry is limited to one page.
Deadline July 31, 2014.
Submission guidelines at http://www.insightmagazine.org/contest/rules.asp
Call for Submissions for Adult Writers:FrostFire Worlds is a quarterly magazine for younger readers published by Alban Lake Publishing in February, May, August, and November.
FrostFire Worlds publishes original science fiction and fantasy short stories, poems, art, articles, reviews, and interviews. Preferred are adventure stories, space opera, and magic opera [like space opera, but fantasy]. Also preferred are stories that take place on other worlds. Stories must have the following: characters the reader cares about, plots and subplots, and settings that draw the reader into them. FrostFire Worlds is intended for younger readers, from ages 8-17 and up. Submission guidelines at http://albanlake.com/guidelines-frost...
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