Amanda Davis's Blog, page 3

#RisingStarsinKidLit: ​Layla Fallah

Rising Stars in KidLit began as a way to highlight my fellow KidLit creators who are working their tails off to birth their beautiful book babies into the world. These interviews cast a light on the wonderful work of pre-published or pre-agented authors and author-illustrators who are destined to be stars! For the next several features, we’re collaborating with the hardworking creators of the PB Rising Stars Mentorship Program, Kailei Pew and Ebony Lynn Mudd, to highlight the wonderful and talented creators who were selected for the 2022 Mentorship Program. Learn more about the PB Rising Stars Mentorship program HERE.   

Photo Credit © ​Layla Fallah

​Layla Fallah is a Kurdish-Canadian writer and recent graduate of Simon Fraser University, where she studied psychology and specialized in learning and developmental disabilities. Her written work is largely inspired by her experience as a daughter of immigrants and explores themes of found family, mental illness, and belonging. Layla hopes her stories will feel like a hug to anyone who has ever felt like they were “too much” or “not enough”. Apart from being published, her dream is to be in a position where she can uplift and amplify voices from traditionally marginalized backgrounds. Wherever she ends up, Layla hopes to combine her passion for mental health awareness, accessibility, and inclusivity, into the publishing industry.

Layla is currently seeking agent representation.  

AD: Hi Layla and welcome to the blog! Thank you so much for being here! Can you start us off by telling us a bit more about your experience in the PB Rising Stars Mentorship Program. 

LF: Let’s start with the outlandish. I just finished listening to a tarot reading claim that a shiny new opportunity would present itself to me (in the next three days, to be exact) when I came across a tweet from Kailei Pew about the PB Rising Stars Mentorship. Fate? Probably not. But I really love the word happenstance and I think it is quite fitting in this case.

So, I applied. And I waited. I was filled with butterflies up until the very last mentee name was announced on July 1st. It was my name. The lovely Ebony Lynn Mudd picked me! I thought, surely, this is a sign that I am meant to switch gears and focus on my picture book projects after years of writing middle grade and young adult novels.

Like Ebony, I am wholeheartedly determined to establish a career in children’s literature and am fueled by the desire to amplify voices from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds. But I had a lot to learn about picture books. As you might have noticed, I am a person of many, many words… and we all know that every word counts when it comes to picture books. As my mentor, Ebony definitely had her work cut out for her. Literally. We had to cut a lot of words.

Moreover, as someone who has never queried, I was thrilled with Ebony’s expertise and willingness to help me prepare and polish my query package—from pitches to revisions to query letters. So far, we have already conquered the battlefield that is #DVPit, and I am thrilled to say that all three of my pitched projects received interest from agents and editors. I have yet to query anyone, but I know that when the time comes, I will feel more than ready to face possible rejection. I am so lucky to have Ebony by my side throughout this entire process!

AD: Wow! What an amazing experience. I love tarot as well and totally agree that this may have been ‘written in the cards’ for you :). It sounds like the mentorship has given you the knowledge and preparation you need to move forward in your journey and congrats on the agent and editor love during #DVpit. It truly helps to have someone in our corner who can guide us through this crazy process! Fingers crossed that’ll you’ll have good news to share soon!

Alright let’s do a speed round…

Top three favorite children’s books of all time? Nura and the Immortal Palace by M.T. Khan, The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill, Other Words for Home by Jasmine WargaCoffee, tea (or neither)? I am a huge fan of both coffee and matcha (iced or blended, always).Where is your safe place? My safe place, much like my happy place, is wherever my bookshelves are. Right now, that is split between my childhood bedroom in Vancouver, British Columbia, and my current home in Buffalo, New York.

Pictured: Some of Layla’s bookshelves in Vancouver, Canada. Photo Credit: © Layla Fallah

Dogs, cats, (or neither)?  Both! I always considered myself a dog person until my soulmate showed up in the form of a stray cat and became my best friend for fifteen years. She sadly passed in early 2020, but she lived an incredibly long (and loved) life. Now I am “mom” to a little monster named Howl, who is incredibly skilled at barking for no apparent reason.

Layla and her beloved cat/reading buddy. Photo Credit: © Layla Fallah

Early bird or night owl? I am definitely a night owl. But if I’m always up until the sun rises… perhaps I am inadvertently an early bird.Three words to describe what it takes to make it in the KidLit world… Passion, perseverance, prose.

AD: Okay, now down to the serious stuff….Please dish us the dirt on who you are and your journey into the fabulous world of children’s books.

LF: I have been “making” books ever since I was given access to the steady supply of construction paper and glue sticks left unat
tended in my kindergarten classroom. Did they always have words in them? No, but they were book-shaped, and that is all that mattered to my tiny, feverish fingers.

I started writing more seriously when I was twelve years old, and had completed my first novel at age fifteen. There were a LOT of abandoned manuscripts along the way. Basically, I have been reading and writing for as long as I can remember. When I started my book blog in late 2015, that further fueled my desire to see more representation in children’s literature. I remember thinking: How is it that I have reviewed over 500 books, but have yet to see a single character who is Kurdish like me?

Since then, I have finally completed my academic studies (much to the approval of my immigrant parents), gained experience in several customer service and administrative roles (as is expected of someone my age, I suppose) and was still left yearning for more.

In late 2021, I took a chance and applied for the 2022 Publishing Fellowship at BookEnds Literary Agency. In my heart, I decided that applying for this fellowship would be my way of asking the universe if I was meant to follow my publishing dreams. And reader, it happened. When I found out I was selected, it gave me a little peak behind the mysterious curtain of publishing. It is now my goal to learn as much about the industry as I can, while contributing (behind the scenes or frontline) to a more diverse catalogue for young readers.

AD: It’s always so interesting to me that the things we loved as a child are often the things we still love as adults but sometimes we wander astray and life gets in the way of following our dreams. I’m glad you’ve stuck with your childhood passions for reading and writing and for bringing inclusive stories into the world for other Kurdish kids to see and love. You mentioned you’ve been creating since you were young but did you always know you wanted to be an author? Have you explored other paths or had/have other jobs?

LF: Yes. As a teen I worked at McDonald’s and Starbucks, then spent a very fun two years at Vancouver International Airport before I transitioned into administrative work at a non-profit organization. But I have always dreamed about seeing my books on the shelves at my local public library. I did not have the privilege or opportunity to study creative writing or pursue it as a full-time job, but I am dedicated to seeing my stories through to the end (from a word document to a concrete thing I can hold in my hands).

AD: Yay! You’re doing it!! One word, one story, at a time!
What topics or themes do you tend to focus on in your writing? Favorite genres you like to write in or favorite art materials/techniques?

LF: I write for children (and adults) who are yearning to be seen or to learn about somewhere new. For the dreamers, outsiders, and those who long for home. My books include whimsical contemporary tales, cozy fantasy novels, and cultural notes across all genres. Themes of belonging, self-acceptance, and generational trauma are also prevalent in most of my work.

AD: Breaking into the publishing industry is not easy! What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced thus far? What have you done to persevere?

LF: The biggest challenge has been being able to financially support myself while trying to accomplish all of the publishing and publishing-adjacent dreams. Student loans, my supportive partner, and life savings have helped sustain my livelihood (just barely) while I prepare to query my manuscripts and look for internships in the agenting/editorial sphere. Aside from that, the toughest part is just having to deal with rejection. Constantly. It will be inevitable at every stage of the publishing process, but will only make that one “yes” sweeter when it finally happens.

AD: Yes to all of this! I think this is so relatable to many creators. My first book took me almost ten years to get traditionally published as I worked full-time as a high school art educator. I’d sneak in time on the weekends and of course during summer break. Now, with an infant at home, those windows are even more narrow. But never giving up is the key. Even if it’s a slow road we continue to learn along the way! Speaking of learning, a s creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well. With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing journey?

LF: I rarely leave my comfort zone, so I would say my biggest accomplishment thus far is just putting myself out there: applying for fellowships/mentorships, finding a community of writers, pitching in a Twitter event, and so on.

AD: In a similar vein, what do you feel are your strengths as an author? What makes your writing unique to you?

LF: All of my writing is informed by my experience as a queer Kurdish-Canadian with invisible disabilities, so I suppose my perspective as an individual could be seen as a strength. In the grand scheme of things, I just feel passionate about contributing my voice to the current representation out there, as well as one day (hopefully) finding myself in a situation where I can uplift others.

AD: I love that sentiment-your perspective is your super power I can’t wait to read your stories one day soon so I can learn more about your unique voice and experiences.  What inspires your work?

LF: Family, friends, and lived experience. Feelings. All of them. Finding someone, real or fictional, who makes you feel seen. The moment when you open a book and feel at home. Learning about people from various backgrounds with entirely different experiences from myself. Finding a whimsical escape from the mundane. Looking for the magic in everything, everywhere. Life.

AD: Tell us about your creative process and what you do to keep ideas flowing or what you do when feeling stuck?

LF: My creative process involves a lot of thinking before I do anything. And then, out of the blue, I will sit and write for hours upon hours. So, I guess you could say I do not have a process at all. I do however love to sit at my desk and surround myself with things like artwork, music, and other books that make me feel excited about writing.

Layla’s writing workspace. © Photo Credit Layla Fallah

AD: What sorts of things have been most integral in your growth as an author?

LF: Always reading. Everything. I find that it not only improves my craft, but it refills my “creative well” when I am burnt out from my manuscript revisions. Oh, and to accept that first drafts will always be changed! Just  write! It does not have to be perfect the first time around.

​AD: What advice do you have for fellow kidlit creatives?

LF: If you can, find a group of writers at your local library, or perhaps on online (Twitter, Discord, etc.), where you can read and provide feedback, as well as support and uplift each other. This journey is already so difficult—it helps no one to go it alone.

AD: Where can readers find out more about you and your work?

LF: You can find me on the internet wherever bookworms tend to gather! My site: www.laylafallah.com

Thank you so much for sharing your insights and creative journey, Layla! I’m sensing some more good news in the cards for you in the near future. Sending our positive vibes your way. Can’t wait to see your books in the hands of young readers! Feel free to drop a comment below to support Layla and her work. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on the next Rising Stars in Kidlit feature and follow along on Twitter at #RisingStarsinKidlit!

The post #RisingStarsinKidLit: ​Layla Fallah appeared first on Amanda Davis.

#RisingStarsinKidLit: ​Layla Fallah

Rising Stars in KidLit began as a way to highlight my fellow KidLit creators who are working their tails off to birth their beautiful book babies into the world. These interviews cast a light on the wonderful work of pre-published or pre-agented authors and author-illustrators who are destined to be stars! For the next several features, we’re collaborating with the hardworking creators of the PB Rising Stars Mentorship Program, Kailei Pew and Ebony Lynn Mudd, to highlight the wonderful and talented creators who were selected for the 2022 Mentorship Program. Learn more about the PB Rising Stars Mentorship program HERE.   Photo Credit © ​Layla Fallah ​Layla Fallah is a Kurdish-Canadian writer and recent graduate of Simon Fraser University, where she studied psychology and specialized in learning and developmental disabilities. Her written work is largely inspired by her experience as a daughter of immigrants and explores themes of found family, mental illness, and belonging. Layla hopes her stories will feel like a hug to anyone who has ever felt like they were “too much” or “not enough”. Apart from being published, her dream is to be in a position where she can uplift and amplify voices from traditionally marginalized backgrounds. Wherever she ends up, Layla hopes to combine her passion for mental health awareness, accessibility, and inclusivity, into the publishing industry.

Layla is currently seeking agent representation.   AD: Hi Layla and welcome to the blog! Thank you so much for being here! Can you start us off by telling us a bit more about your experience in the PB Rising Stars Mentorship Program. 

LF: Let’s start with the outlandish. I just finished listening to a tarot reading claim that a shiny new opportunity would present itself to me (in the next three days, to be exact) when I came across a tweet from Kailei Pew about the PB Rising Stars Mentorship. Fate? Probably not. But I really love the word happenstance and I think it is quite fitting in this case.

So, I applied. And I waited. I was filled with butterflies up until the very last mentee name was announced on July 1st. It was my name. The lovely Ebony Lynn Mudd picked me! I thought, surely, this is a sign that I am meant to switch gears and focus on my picture book projects after years of writing middle grade and young adult novels.

Like Ebony, I am wholeheartedly determined to establish a career in children’s literature and am fueled by the desire to amplify voices from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds. But I had a lot to learn about picture books. As you might have noticed, I am a person of many, many words... and we all know that every word counts when it comes to picture books. As my mentor, Ebony definitely had her work cut out for her. Literally. We had to cut a lot of words.

Moreover, as someone who has never queried, I was thrilled with Ebony’s expertise and willingness to help me prepare and polish my query package—from pitches to revisions to query letters. So far, we have already conquered the battlefield that is #DVPit, and I am thrilled to say that all three of my pitched projects received interest from agents and editors. I have yet to query anyone, but I know that when the time comes, I will feel more than ready to face possible rejection. I am so lucky to have Ebony by my side throughout this entire process!

AD: Wow! What an amazing experience. I love tarot as well and totally agree that this may have been 'written in the cards' for you :). It sounds like the mentorship has given you the knowledge and preparation you need to move forward in your journey and congrats on the agent and editor love during #DVpit. It truly helps to have someone in our corner who can guide us through this crazy process! Fingers crossed that'll you'll have good news to share soon!

Alright let’s do a speed round…Top three favorite children’s books of all time? Nura and the Immortal Palace by M.T. Khan, The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill, Other Words for Home by Jasmine WargaCoffee, tea (or neither)? I am a huge fan of both coffee and matcha (iced or blended, always).Where is your safe place? My safe place, much like my happy place, is wherever my bookshelves are. Right now, that is split between my childhood bedroom in Vancouver, British Columbia, and my current home in Buffalo, New York. Pictured: Some of Layla’s bookshelves in Vancouver, Canada. Photo Credit: © Layla Fallah Dogs, cats, (or neither)?  Both! I always considered myself a dog person until my soulmate showed up in the form of a stray cat and became my best friend for fifteen years. She sadly passed in early 2020, but she lived an incredibly long (and loved) life. Now I am “mom” to a little monster named Howl, who is incredibly skilled at barking for no apparent reason. Layla and her beloved cat/reading buddy. Photo Credit: © Layla Fallah Early bird or night owl? I am definitely a night owl. But if I’m always up until the sun rises… perhaps I am inadvertently an early bird.Three words to describe what it takes to make it in the KidLit world… Passion, perseverance, prose.
AD: Okay, now down to the serious stuff….Please dish us the dirt on who you are and your journey into the fabulous world of children’s books.

LF: I have been “making” books ever since I was given access to the steady supply of construction paper and glue sticks left unattended in my kindergarten classroom. Did they always have words in them? No, but they were book-shaped, and that is all that mattered to my tiny, feverish fingers.

I started writing more seriously when I was twelve years old, and had completed my first novel at age fifteen. There were a LOT of abandoned manuscripts along the way. Basically, I have been reading and writing for as long as I can remember. When I started my book blog in late 2015, that further fueled my desire to see more representation in children’s literature. I remember thinking: How is it that I have reviewed over 500 books, but have yet to see a single character who is Kurdish like me?

Since then, I have finally completed my academic studies (much to the approval of my immigrant parents), gained experience in several customer service and administrative roles (as is expected of someone my age, I suppose) and was still left yearning for more.

In late 2021, I took a chance and applied for the 2022 Publishing Fellowship at BookEnds Literary Agency. In my heart, I decided that applying for this fellowship would be my way of asking the universe if I was meant to follow my publishing dreams. And reader, it happened. When I found out I was selected, it gave me a little peak behind the mysterious curtain of publishing. It is now my goal to learn as much about the industry as I can, while contributing (behind the scenes or frontline) to a more diverse catalogue for young readers.

AD: It's always so interesting to me that the things we loved as a child are often the things we still love as adults but sometimes we wander astray and life gets in the way of following our dreams. I'm glad you've stuck with your childhood passions for reading and writing and for bringing inclusive stories into the world for other Kurdish kids to see and love. You mentioned you've been creating since you were young but did you always know you wanted to be an author? Have you explored other paths or had/have other jobs?

LF: Yes. As a teen I worked at McDonald’s and Starbucks, then spent a very fun two years at Vancouver International Airport before I transitioned into administrative work at a non-profit organization. But I have always dreamed about seeing my books on the shelves at my local public library. I did not have the privilege or opportunity to study creative writing or pursue it as a full-time job, but I am dedicated to seeing my stories through to the end (from a word document to a concrete thing I can hold in my hands).

AD: Yay! You're doing it!! One word, one story, at a time! :)
What topics or themes do you tend to focus on in your writing? Favorite genres you like to write in or favorite art materials/techniques?

LF: I write for children (and adults) who are yearning to be seen or to learn about somewhere new. For the dreamers, outsiders, and those who long for home. My books include whimsical contemporary tales, cozy fantasy novels, and cultural notes across all genres. Themes of belonging, self-acceptance, and generational trauma are also prevalent in most of my work.

AD: Breaking into the publishing industry is not easy! What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced thus far? What have you done to persevere?

LF: The biggest challenge has been being able to financially support myself while trying to accomplish all of the publishing and publishing-adjacent dreams. Student loans, my supportive partner, and life savings have helped sustain my livelihood (just barely) while I prepare to query my manuscripts and look for internships in the agenting/editorial sphere. Aside from that, the toughest part is just having to deal with rejection. Constantly. It will be inevitable at every stage of the publishing process, but will only make that one “yes” sweeter when it finally happens.

AD: Yes to all of this! I think this is so relatable to many creators. My first book took me almost ten years to get traditionally published as I worked full-time as a high school art educator. I'd sneak in time on the weekends and of course during summer break. Now, with an infant at home, those windows are even more narrow. But never giving up is the key. Even if it's a slow road we continue to learn along the way! Speaking of learning, as creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well. With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing journey?

LF: I rarely leave my comfort zone, so I would say my biggest accomplishment thus far is just putting myself out there: applying for fellowships/mentorships, finding a community of writers, pitching in a Twitter event, and so on.

AD: In a similar vein, what do you feel are your strengths as an author? What makes your writing unique to you?

LF: All of my writing is informed by my experience as a queer Kurdish-Canadian with invisible disabilities, so I suppose my perspective as an individual could be seen as a strength. In the grand scheme of things, I just feel passionate about contributing my voice to the current representation out there, as well as one day (hopefully) finding myself in a situation where I can uplift others.

AD: I love that sentiment-your perspective is your super power :) I can't wait to read your stories one day soon so I can learn more about your unique voice and experiences. What inspires your work?

LF: Family, friends, and lived experience. Feelings. All of them. Finding someone, real or fictional, who makes you feel seen. The moment when you open a book and feel at home. Learning about people from various backgrounds with entirely different experiences from myself. Finding a whimsical escape from the mundane. Looking for the magic in everything, everywhere. Life.

AD: Tell us about your creative process and what you do to keep ideas flowing or what you do when feeling stuck?

LF: My creative process involves a lot of thinking before I do anything. And then, out of the blue, I will sit and write for hours upon hours. So, I guess you could say I do not have a process at all. I do however love to sit at my desk and surround myself with things like artwork, music, and other books that make me feel excited about writing. Layla’s writing workspace. © Photo Credit Layla Fallah AD: What sorts of things have been most integral in your growth as an author?

LF: Always reading. Everything. I find that it not only improves my craft, but it refills my “creative well” when I am burnt out from my manuscript revisions. Oh, and to accept that first drafts will always be changed! Just  write! It does not have to be perfect the first time around.

​AD: What advice do you have for fellow kidlit creatives?

LF: If you can, find a group of writers at your local library, or perhaps on online (Twitter, Discord, etc.), where you can read and provide feedback, as well as support and uplift each other. This journey is already so difficult—it helps no one to go it alone.

AD: Where can readers find out more about you and your work?

LF: You can find me on the internet wherever bookworms tend to gather! My site: www.laylafallah.com Thank you so much for sharing your insights and creative journey, Layla! I'm sensing some more good news in the cards for you in the near future. Sending our positive vibes your way. Can't wait to see your books in the hands of young readers! Feel free to drop a comment below to support Layla and her work. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss out on the next Rising Stars in Kidlit feature and follow along on Twitter at #RisingStarsinKidlit! © Angela Wood Photography Hi! I'm Amanda!

Amanda Davis is a teacher, artist, writer, and innovator who uses her words and pictures to light up the world with kindness. When she’s not busy creating, you can find her sipping tea, petting dogs, and exploring the natural wonders of The Bay State with her family and her rescue pup, Cora.

Amanda is represented by Jennifer Unter of The Unter Agency.
​
Amanda's award-winning picture book, 30,000 STITCHES is out now with WorthyKids/Hachette Book Group! Click here to learn more.

#RisingStarsinKidLit: Aimee Satterlee

Rising Stars in KidLit began as a way to highlight my fellow kidlit creators who are working their tails off to birth their beautiful book babies into the world.  These interviews cast a light on the wonderful work of pre-published or pre-agented authors and author-illustrators who are destined to be stars! For the next several features, we’re collaborating with the hardworking creators of the PB Rising Stars Mentorship Program, Kailei Pew and Ebony Lynn Mudd, to highlight the wonderful and talented creators who were selected for the 2022 Mentorship Program. Learn more about the PB Rising Stars Mentorship program HERE .   Meet Rising Star
Author Aimee Satterlee!

Photo Credit: © Adam Satterlee

Aimee Satterlee has always had a deep love of picture books. From the time she was 3-years-old and named her cat Harold after Harold and the Purple Crayon, Aimee knew picture books contain the best answers to life’s questions. After a career reading picture books to kids as an elementary teacher, she is dedicated to a career writing picture books for kids as a full-time author. Aimee is a 2022 PB Rising Star and a member of SCBWI and 12×12 PB Challenge. She enjoys spending time with her hilarious husband, three charming children and one precious pup on the same road where she grew up.

Aimee is currently seeking agent representation.

AD: Welcome to the blog, Aimee! Let’s start with your experience in the PB Rising Stars Mentorship Program. Can you tell us who your mentor is, what inspired you to apply, and how the program is going/went for you?

AS: My mentor, and new publishing bestie, is Kailei Pew! We are alike in so many eerie ways–even our birthdays are just days apart.

​I knew immediately when Kailei posted about starting a mentorship program that I HAD to apply to her. For one, a dear and longtime critique partner (Nicole Sharkey) sent me that original post and said Kailei would be a good match for me. Nicole gets props for predicting this pairing from the start! Plus, I had been a longtime follower and fan of Kailei and knew she wrote in a variety of genres like me, so it seemed perfect…and it is!

I could not ask for a better mentor than Kailei. She “gets me” and my work. We set some pretty lofty goals to revise 6 manuscripts as well as get the entire package ready (pitches, query letters, submission lists, etc.) for agent querying after the mentorship. Not to mention getting my author website off and running…But, Kailei has been behind me and believes in me 100%.
​

AD: Wow! That sounds serendipitous! It’s so nice to have guidance in this industry and it seems you’ve had a pretty productive mentorship thus far. Yay for collaboration and teamwork! 
​Alright let’s do a speed round…

Top three favorite children’s books of all time? WATERCRESS by Andrea Wang and Jason Chin, THE NIGHT GARDENER by The Fan Brothers, and SAM AND DAVE DIG A HOLE by Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen. Ok, now I need to go hug my other all-time favorites.Coffee, tea (or neither)? Neither. I know that’s not typical for a writer (or a former teacher) but plain water is my go-to drink.Where is your safe place? Home. I am truly blessed to live on the same road as I did as a child. I can look out my window and see the house where I grew up. There’s something magical and peaceful being connected to my past and future on this little one lane road named after my grandfather.Dogs, cats, (or neither)? Neither. I am not a cat or dog person. I’m a Pearl person. She’s my one-year old furry writing partner. She’s part human-dog-cat-frog-pig. I love her so much!​

Aimee’s writing buddy, Pearl. © Photo credit Aimee Satterlee

Early bird or night owl? Neither. (I’m seeing a trend here. Ha!)Three words to describe what it takes to make it in the kidlit world… persistence, patience, joy!!!

AD: Okay, now down to the serious stuff….please dish us the dirt on who you are and your journey into the fabulous world of children’s books.

AS: I started writing when my son was born. It was just a fun way to stay awake during late night feedings–jotting stories on my iPhone. My husband, who is a teacher, said he wanted to show one of my stories to his 5th grade class. Little did I know, he stealthily took my story and had it illustrated by a RISD alum as a present. When I opened it, I cried. Actually, I sobbed. To see that little story I wrote on my iPhone as a potential picture book lit a fire from within. I have been learning and growing ever since. When I started, I didn’t even know there were 32 pages in a picture book. Needless to say, that first story was a mess. I can look back at it now and laugh. But, it was the beginning of my official writing journey and for that I’m forever grateful.

AD: Sweetest and most thoughtful gift ever! And as a new mom myself, how inspiring that your spark to write was a result of late nights with your baby boy. Inspiration is everywhere! Although your writing journey started after having your son, did you always know you wanted to be an author? Have you explored other paths or had/have other jobs?

AS: I’ve always loved picture books. My parents tried bribing me as a child to stop reading picture books and start reading chapter books. Looking back, there was a definite reason that the picture book form spoke to the core of who I am. But, I don’t think I *knew* I could actually *be* an author. I grew up in a family of teachers going back many generations. So, naturally I became a teacher. I adored my student
s and enjoyed reading books to them. Being a teacher and a mom awakened that deep love of picture books. I truly believe everything in my life has led me here. And, I’m really proud of being able to share this journey with my children and hopefully be an example of determination. They have seen how I handle this difficult journey and all the rejections, but always picking myself up and continuing because when you feel a deep passion and purpose, nothing will stop you.

AD: What topics or themes do you tend to focus on in your writing? Favorite genres you like to write in?

AS: I’m not afraid to go deeply emotional and personal or on the flip side, as one CP said, I can be “fearlessly silly.” I write in many picture book genres (nonfiction, informational fiction, lyrical, humor, STEM, SEL). No matter what genre, I hope my readers feel seen, loved and happy! If what I create means something to a child, there is no greater good or purpose. I love writing and I always want to focus on that deep joy because I hope it will be felt by readers.

AD: Breaking into the publishing industry is not easy! What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced thus far? What have you done to persevere?

AS: One of my biggest challenges was actually turning down an offer of representation last fall. The Call was on my actual birthday! (Complete with zombie unicorn ice cream cake…) It felt like a real birthday wish manifested. So, for me to say “no” was difficult. I’m grateful now because I would not have actually written the lyrical piece of my heart that touched Kailei, my mentor, and had this incredible opportunity of a mentorship. Everything is meant to be including all the times I applied and was not chosen for other mentorships. I keep showing up for opportunities, learning and growing. Perseverance is my superpower! I also find that eating a lot of Crumbl cookies along the way is essential.

AD: What an interesting situation. Thank you for sharing that. I think so often we are so excited to get that initial offer that we can overlook our gut feelings when making the decision to move forward in a partnership or not. Thanks for that reminder that it’s okay to pass on opportunities that may not align at our core, knowing that in the end, the decision will lead us to where we are meant to be. And I need to try some of those Crumbl cookies! Yum!

 

 

 ​Crumbl Treats Photo Credit: © Aimee Satterlee

AD: As creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well.  With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing journey?

AS: I think there were over 400 applications for the PB Rising Stars Mentorship. So, being chosen was a really big deal. I feel fortunate for the opportunity to learn and grow with such an amazing mentor. I have had writing contest wins that have been meaningful. 2022 and 2019 I was a winner for Vivian Kirkfield’s 50 Precious Words, and in 2020 I was Honorable Mention. I don’t have the time to enter in all the amazing writing contests out there, but I always make 50 Precious Words a priority because it challenges me to really focus on word choice and tell a complete story in so few words. I also won Honorable Mention for Kids’ Choice Kidlit Writing Contest 2022. This contest is judged by real kids! So, for kid readers (who are not my own children) to actually like my story enough to vote on it meant so much.

AD: Woohoo! So many wins and reasons to celebrate. More Crumble cookies perhaps?!?
Speaking of accomplishments, what do you feel are your strengths as an author? What makes your writing unique to you?

AS: One of my strengths is the creativity of my ideas. Tara Lazar says that “concept is king.” Ideas come easily to me. My list has almost 500 ideas on it right now. Granted only some of those will rise to the top of the list to become manuscripts, but I seem to have a knack for coming up with unique ideas with multiple hooks and kid appeal. I have a specific voice that my mentor and CPs says comes through no matter what genre I write in. I think it’s “miscellaimeeous”–sometimes quirky, sweet, funny, deep. I write with the intention of bringing extra hope, comfort and joy to readers.

 

​AD: Love that “miscellaimeeous”   word play
What inspires your work?

AS: I’m inspired by kids! My own kids, former students, my inner kid, kids just being kids!, kids with big feelings, and kids who need a reminder that they are loved. I care so much about my future readers. I know there are children out there who need my books. I won’t give up on them.

AD: Tell us about your creative process and what you do to keep ideas flowing or what you do when feeling stuck?

AS: Tara Lazar’s Storystorm is a treasure. I always participate in the month of January and generate so many idea “jewels” for the whole year. As far as being stuck, my best advice is take a break. Don’t force it. Switch to something else you are working on. I usually have multiple projects I’m working on at once. So, if I am stuck with one I move to a different one. That time away is usually enough to provide clarity and get me moving again in the right direction.

AD: I love Tara’s Storystorm! So many jewels can come from it!

Aimee’s Workspace Photo Credit: © Aimee Satterlee

AD: What sorts of things have been most integral in your growth as an author?

AS: Some of the organizations and groups that have been the most beneficial to my growth as an author are: SCBWI, 12×12, Kidlit Twitter and #PBChat. I’ve been a part of many writing conferences, and numerous webinars with outstanding authors and industry professionals.

Critique groups!!! I’m currently a part of 4 CGs. No one can do this journey alone. I’m lucky to be part of critique groups with such talented writers!

​Reading! Reading! Reading! I’ve calculated that I’ve read more than 7,800 picture books since starting my writing journey. I always check out a huge stack of books each week from the library. I even have a whole file dedicated to analyzing picture book texts.

AD: What advice do you have for fellow kidlit creatives?

AS: Keep going! Good things are already on the way to you!

AD: Where can readers find out more about you and your work? 

Twitter @AimeeSatterlee
Website: www.AimeeSatterlee.com

Thank you so much for sharing your insights and creative journey, Aimee! We can’t wait to see your heartfelt books in the hands of young readers! Feel free to drop a comment below to support Aimee and her work. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on the next Rising Stars in Kidlit feature and follow along on Twitter at #RisingStarsinKidlit!

The post #RisingStarsinKidLit: Aimee Satterlee appeared first on Amanda Davis.

#RisingStarsinKidLit: Aimee Satterlee

Rising Stars in KidLit began as a way to highlight my fellow kidlit creators who are working their tails off to birth their beautiful book babies into the world.  These interviews cast a light on the wonderful work of pre-published or pre-agented authors and author-illustrators who are destined to be stars! For the next several features, we’re collaborating with the hardworking creators of the PB Rising Stars Mentorship Program, Kailei Pew and Ebony Lynn Mudd, to highlight the wonderful and talented creators who were selected for the 2022 Mentorship Program. Learn more about the PB Rising Stars Mentorship program HERE .    ​
​Meet Rising Star
​
Author Aimee Satterlee! Photo Credit: © Adam Satterlee Aimee Satterlee has always had a deep love of picture books. From the time she was 3-years-old and named her cat Harold after Harold and the Purple Crayon, Aimee knew picture books contain the best answers to life’s questions. After a career reading picture books to kids as an elementary teacher, she is dedicated to a career writing picture books for kids as a full-time author. Aimee is a 2022 PB Rising Star and a member of SCBWI and 12x12 PB Challenge. She enjoys spending time with her hilarious husband, three charming children and one precious pup on the same road where she grew up.

Aimee is currently seeking agent representation.
AD: Welcome to the blog, Aimee! Let’s start with your experience in the PB Rising Stars Mentorship Program. Can you tell us who your mentor is, what inspired you to apply, and how the program is going/went for you?
AS: My mentor, and new publishing bestie, is Kailei Pew! We are alike in so many eerie ways--even our birthdays are just days apart.

​I knew immediately when Kailei posted about starting a mentorship program that I HAD to apply to her. For one, a dear and longtime critique partner (Nicole Sharkey) sent me that original post and said Kailei would be a good match for me. Nicole gets props for predicting this pairing from the start! Plus, I had been a longtime follower and fan of Kailei and knew she wrote in a variety of genres like me, so it seemed perfect…and it is!
 
I could not ask for a better mentor than Kailei. She “gets me” and my work. We set some pretty lofty goals to revise 6 manuscripts as well as get the entire package ready (pitches, query letters, submission lists, etc.) for agent querying after the mentorship. Not to mention getting my author website off and running…But, Kailei has been behind me and believes in me 100%.
​ AD: Wow! That sounds serendipitous! It's so nice to have guidance in this industry and it seems you've had a pretty productive mentorship thus far. Yay for collaboration and teamwork! 
​Alright let’s do a speed round…Top three favorite children’s books of all time? WATERCRESS by Andrea Wang and Jason Chin, THE NIGHT GARDENER by The Fan Brothers, and SAM AND DAVE DIG A HOLE by Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen. Ok, now I need to go hug my other all-time favorites.Coffee, tea (or neither)? Neither. I know that’s not typical for a writer (or a former teacher) but plain water is my go-to drink.Where is your safe place? Home. I am truly blessed to live on the same road as I did as a child. I can look out my window and see the house where I grew up. There’s something magical and peaceful being connected to my past and future on this little one lane road named after my grandfather.Dogs, cats, (or neither)? Neither. I am not a cat or dog person. I’m a Pearl person. She’s my one-year old furry writing partner. She’s part human-dog-cat-frog-pig. I love her so much!​ Aimee's writing buddy, Pearl. © Photo credit Aimee Satterlee Early bird or night owl? Neither. (I’m seeing a trend here. Ha!)Three words to describe what it takes to make it in the kidlit world… persistence, patience, joy!!! AD: Okay, now down to the serious stuff….please dish us the dirt on who you are and your journey into the fabulous world of children’s books.

AS: I started writing when my son was born. It was just a fun way to stay awake during late night feedings--jotting stories on my iPhone. My husband, who is a teacher, said he wanted to show one of my stories to his 5th grade class. Little did I know, he stealthily took my story and had it illustrated by a RISD alum as a present. When I opened it, I cried. Actually, I sobbed. To see that little story I wrote on my iPhone as a potential picture book lit a fire from within. I have been learning and growing ever since. When I started, I didn’t even know there were 32 pages in a picture book. Needless to say, that first story was a mess. I can look back at it now and laugh. But, it was the beginning of my official writing journey and for that I’m forever grateful.

AD: Sweetest and most thoughtful gift ever! And as a new mom myself, how inspiring that your spark to write was a result of late nights with your baby boy. Inspiration is everywhere! Although your writing journey started after having your son, did you always know you wanted to be an author? Have you explored other paths or had/have other jobs? AS: I’ve always loved picture books. My parents tried bribing me as a child to stop reading picture books and start reading chapter books. Looking back, there was a definite reason that the picture book form spoke to the core of who I am. But, I don’t think I *knew* I could actually *be* an author. I grew up in a family of teachers going back many generations. So, naturally I became a teacher. I adored my students and enjoyed reading books to them. Being a teacher and a mom awakened that deep love of picture books. I truly believe everything in my life has led me here. And, I’m really proud of being able to share this journey with my children and hopefully be an example of determination. They have seen how I handle this difficult journey and all the rejections, but always picking myself up and continuing because when you feel a deep passion and purpose, nothing will stop you. AD: What topics or themes do you tend to focus on in your writing? Favorite genres you like to write in?

AS: I’m not afraid to go deeply emotional and personal or on the flip side, as one CP said, I can be “fearlessly silly.” I write in many picture book genres (nonfiction, informational fiction, lyrical, humor, STEM, SEL). No matter what genre, I hope my readers feel seen, loved and happy! If what I create means something to a child, there is no greater good or purpose. I love writing and I always want to focus on that deep joy because I hope it will be felt by readers.

AD: Breaking into the publishing industry is not easy! What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced thus far? What have you done to persevere?

AS: One of my biggest challenges was actually turning down an offer of representation last fall. The Call was on my actual birthday! (Complete with zombie unicorn ice cream cake…) It felt like a real birthday wish manifested. So, for me to say “no” was difficult. I’m grateful now because I would not have actually written the lyrical piece of my heart that touched Kailei, my mentor, and had this incredible opportunity of a mentorship. Everything is meant to be including all the times I applied and was not chosen for other mentorships. I keep showing up for opportunities, learning and growing. Perseverance is my superpower! I also find that eating a lot of Crumbl cookies along the way is essential.

AD: What an interesting situation. Thank you for sharing that. I think so often we are so excited to get that initial offer that we can overlook our gut feelings when making the decision to move forward in a partnership or not. Thanks for that reminder that it's okay to pass on opportunities that may not align at our core, knowing that in the end, the decision will lead us to where we are meant to be. And I need to try some of those Crumbl cookies! Yum! ​Crumbl Treats Photo Credit: © Aimee Satterlee AD: As creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well.  With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing journey?

AS: I think there were over 400 applications for the PB Rising Stars Mentorship. So, being chosen was a really big deal. I feel fortunate for the opportunity to learn and grow with such an amazing mentor. I have had writing contest wins that have been meaningful. 2022 and 2019 I was a winner for Vivian Kirkfield’s 50 Precious Words, and in 2020 I was Honorable Mention. I don’t have the time to enter in all the amazing writing contests out there, but I always make 50 Precious Words a priority because it challenges me to really focus on word choice and tell a complete story in so few words. I also won Honorable Mention for Kids’ Choice Kidlit Writing Contest 2022. This contest is judged by real kids! So, for kid readers (who are not my own children) to actually like my story enough to vote on it meant so much.

AD: Woohoo! So many wins and reasons to celebrate. More Crumble cookies perhaps?!?
Speaking of accomplishments, what do you feel are your strengths as an author? What makes your writing unique to you?

AS: One of my strengths is the creativity of my ideas. Tara Lazar says that “concept is king.” Ideas come easily to me. My list has almost 500 ideas on it right now. Granted only some of those will rise to the top of the list to become manuscripts, but I seem to have a knack for coming up with unique ideas with multiple hooks and kid appeal. I have a specific voice that my mentor and CPs says comes through no matter what genre I write in. I think it’s “miscellaimeeous”--sometimes quirky, sweet, funny, deep. I write with the intention of bringing extra hope, comfort and joy to readers.


​AD: Love that “miscellaimeeous” word play ;)
What inspires your work?

AS: I’m inspired by kids! My own kids, former students, my inner kid, kids just being kids!, kids with big feelings, and kids who need a reminder that they are loved. I care so much about my future readers. I know there are children out there who need my books. I won’t give up on them.

AD: Tell us about your creative process and what you do to keep ideas flowing or what you do when feeling stuck?

AS: Tara Lazar’s Storystorm is a treasure. I always participate in the month of January and generate so many idea “jewels” for the whole year. As far as being stuck, my best advice is take a break. Don’t force it. Switch to something else you are working on. I usually have multiple projects I’m working on at once. So, if I am stuck with one I move to a different one. That time away is usually enough to provide clarity and get me moving again in the right direction.

AD: I love Tara's Storystorm! So many jewels can come from it! Aimee's Workspace Photo Credit: © Aimee Satterlee AD: What sorts of things have been most integral in your growth as an author?

AS: Some of the organizations and groups that have been the most beneficial to my growth as an author are: SCBWI, 12x12, Kidlit Twitter and #PBChat. I’ve been a part of many writing conferences, and numerous webinars with outstanding authors and industry professionals.

Critique groups!!! I’m currently a part of 4 CGs. No one can do this journey alone. I’m lucky to be part of critique groups with such talented writers!

​Reading! Reading! Reading! I’ve calculated that I’ve read more than 7,800 picture books since starting my writing journey. I always check out a huge stack of books each week from the library. I even have a whole file dedicated to analyzing picture book texts.

AD: What advice do you have for fellow kidlit creatives?

AS: Keep going! Good things are already on the way to you!

AD: Where can readers find out more about you and your work? 

Twitter @AimeeSatterlee
Website: www.AimeeSatterlee.com Thank you so much for sharing your insights and creative journey, Aimee! We can't wait to see your heartfelt books in the hands of young readers! Feel free to drop a comment below to support Aimee and her work. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss out on the next Rising Stars in Kidlit feature and follow along on Twitter at #RisingStarsinKidlit! Photo Credit: Angela Wood Photography Hi! I'm Amanda!

Amanda Davis is a teacher, artist, writer, and innovator who uses her words and pictures to light up the world with kindness. When she’s not busy creating, you can find her sipping tea, petting dogs, and exploring the natural wonders of The Bay State with her family and her rescue pup, Cora.

Amanda is represented by Jennifer Unter of The Unter Agency.
​
Amanda's award-winning picture book, 30,000 STITCHES is out now with WorthyKids/Hachette Book Group! Click here to learn more.
​

Rising Stars in KidLit: Jasmine Fang

Rising Stars in KidLit began as a way to highlight my fellow kidlit creators who are working their tails off to birth their beautiful book babies into the world.  These interviews cast a light on the wonderful work of pre-published or pre-agented authors and author-illustrators who are destined to be stars! For the next several features, we’re collaborating with the hardworking creators of the PB Rising Stars Mentorship Program, Kailei Pew and Ebony Lynn Mudd, to highlight the wonderful and talented creators who were selected for the 2022 Mentorship Program. Learn more about the PB Rising Stars Mentorship program HERE .  

Meet Rising Star
​
Author Jasmine Fang Photo Credit: © Jasmine Fang Jasmine Fang is a Asian American civil servant and writer. She was born overseas, grew up in Texas and Southern California, and has worked in Washington D.C. and San Francisco in government and higher education. She led a campus-wide movement “liveKIND”, which became her life mantra.  Having worked, studied, and traveled in over 30 countries, she cares about building communities, equity and inclusion, and helping others feel a deep sense of belonging. She is the SCBWI SF South New Member Coordinator. In 2022, Jasmine was selected as a PBRS mentee, SCBWI BIPOC scholarship, and Courage to Create scholarship. She currently lives in San Francisco with her wonderful husband, toddler, and maple tree.
 
Fun facts: she won her first writing contest in 4th grade, wrote poetry since high school (and performed spoken word), and speak 2.5 languages. Not so fun fact: she holds an MBA.

Jasmine is currently seeking agent representation.
​ AD: Hi Jasmine! I'm so excited to have you here to kick off this fun KidLit Rising Stars collaboration. Let’s start with your experience in the PB Rising Stars Mentorship Program. Can you tell us who your mentor is, what inspired you to apply, and how the program is going/went for you ?
 
JF: First off, thanks so much Amanda for interviewing me! I’m grateful to have been selected for the PBRS mentorship. My mentor is the wonderfully talented Sylvia Chen (Website, Twitter, Goodreads) and her picture book TRICKY CHOPSTICKS is slated to come out 2024. She’s helped me immensely by looking at my stories from different angles and also giving a great bird’s eye view of what’s working or not. 
 
Of course, kudos to our PBRS creators extraordinaires Ebony Mudd and Kailei Pew for all their work towards the program and hosting workshops alongside Jerrold Connors, Justin Colon, and Winsome Bingham. I applied to PBRS to learn more about the industry and connect with other creators. As the mentorship draws to a close, I feel more confident in my pieces and have a deeper understanding of the publishing process.

AD: So glad to hear you're walking away more confident in both your work and with navigating the industry. Not surprising consider the all-star line up of mentors :)
​Alright let’s do a speed round…Top three favorite children’s books of all time?  I love books that give me ALL THE FEELS. Right now, I’m enjoying Watercress by Andrea Wang, Eyes that Kiss in the Corners by Joanna Ho, and Patchwork by Matt de la Pena.Coffee, tea (or neither)?  Currently Ritual coffee in the AM, though I’m always down for a good rooibos, pu-er, or genmai tea.Where is your safe place?  If I share publicly, it will no longer be safe :)Dogs, cats, (or neither)?  Dogs! I had shelter dogs. And ducks, though that’s not an option.Early bird or night owl?  Early bird (along with my toddler, but not my husband)Three words to describe what it takes to make it in the kidlit world… passion, persistence, patience.​  AD: Okay, now down to the serious stuff….please dish us the dirt on who you are and your journey into the fabulous world of children’s books.

JF: I grew up reading picture books in Mandarin and getting lost in magical worlds. I’ve always loved reading (memoirs, biographies, poetry, rom coms, picture books) and I started writing poetry in high school for fun. Pre-pandemic, I hosted ‘article clubs’ with a close group of girlfriends and we’d discuss meaningful articles over wine. I also hosted book discussions with my agency’s AAPI affinity group. While those topics are more grown-up, I’ve always had ideas for picture books and was first inspired when a friend of mine self-published a picture book. During the pandemic and my pregnancy, I paused extracurriculars to study and write kidlit.

Aside from taking online writing classes to hone my kidlit writing craft, I joined SCBWI and Inked Voices where I met wonderful critique partners. Then there’s Twitter’s supportive kidlit community, where writing contests, mentorships, critique giveaways, and other goodies are shared. And here we are today.

AD: Did you always know you wanted to be an author? Have you explored other paths or had/have other jobs?

JF: I’ve always had ideas for children's books, though these dreams weren’t pursued until recently. I’ve dedicated most of my career to civil service and higher education (international affairs, leadership development, advising), which has been rewarding and allowed me to see different parts of the world. You can read about my Day in the Life of a Civil Servant (in Quarantine) here. One day, I plan to write a women’s fiction novel and a poetry book. Just putting it out there!

AD: Wow! Amazing where our paths can take us. Sounds like no matter where you were or what you were doing, telling stories was always of interest to you. Thank you for sharing the Day in the Life of a Civil Servant post. It was fascinating to read about your daily routine and even gave me a sneak peek into your narrative voice. Also, your home cooked meals looks delicious!  

​Speaking of sneak peeks, can you share what topics or themes do you tend to focus on in your writing? Favorite genres you like to write in?

JF: My strongest pieces are about cultural experiences, family, courage, and kindness. Most of my stories have heart with some humor. Some are #own pieces. I hope to bring forth my identities and create timeless books that kids can relate to.  Recently, a friend asked me to write PB stories about my top secret clearance (expired) and all the cool bits. So maybe more of that to come.
AD: Breaking into the publishing industry is not easy! What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced thus far? What have you done to persevere?

JF: I haven’t broken into the publishing industry yet! As we were asked not to query during the mentorship program, I plan to start querying later in 2022. My biggest challenge right now is actually taking the plunge into querying.

AD: I would beg to differ on that :) Taking the plunge to get your work out there for opportunities such as the PBRS mentorship program takes vulnerability and  connecting with people in the industry to build supports and seek guidance is huge! These are all steps towards breaking into the industry and building the foundation that will give you solid ground to stand on once you officially start querying. You are doing it!!  On a similar note, as creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well.  With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your creative journey?

​JF: I’m proud of being selected for this PBRS mentorship program, SCBWI BIPOC scholarship, and Courage 2 Create scholarship, all which required me to submit pieces of my work. I’m also proud that my family members resonate with my stories. My dad loved two pieces. My husband (professionally published in his industry and often brings me down to earth re writing) gave a few compliments – I’ll take it.

AD: Congratulations on all these wonderful accomplishments, Jasmine.  It's clear others are recognizing the strengths and specialness of your work but what do you feel are your strengths as an author? What makes your writing unique to you?

JF: I’ve been told I have creative story ideas. For many of my stories, I take personal experiences and mold them into a digestible way so others can better understand.  

AD: What inspires your work?

JF: My toddler, nature, and lived experiences.

Some of Jasmine's inspirations. Photo Credit: © Jasmine Fang AD: Tell us about your creative process and what you do to keep ideas flowing or what you do when feeling stuck?

JF: I read, listen to audiobooks, or go for a jog. Thankfully, we live near plenty of greenery and hiking trails. Inspiration can strike anytime– when I’m reading, on the tennis courts, or on the playground with my son.

AD: What sorts of things have been most integral in your growth?

JF: Critique partners, support from my mentor and PBRisingStars, the kidlit community, and librarians I’ve befriended.

AD: What advice do you have for fellow kidlit creatives?

JF: Plug into the writing community and make sure you have a strong support system!  Self-care and prioritizing health is so, so important.  I’m working full-time, raising my toddler, managing a side project, and writing. I also find setting incremental goals and living in day-tight compartments helpful as well.
Lastly, give back if you’re able to :)


AD: Where can readers find out more about you and your work? 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jasmineifang
Website: https://jasminefang.wordpress.com/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasmineifang/ AD: Thank you so much for stopping by the blog, Jasmine! I appreciate you sharing a bit about yourself, the PB Rising Stars Mentorship and contributing to the Rising Stars in Kidlit blog series We can't wait to read your stories and see where your journey leads you!  Feel free to drop a comment below to support Jasmine and her work, and be sure to subscribe so you don't miss out and follow along on Twitter at #RisingStarsinKidlit! Photo Credit © Angela Wood Photography Hi! I'm Amanda!

Amanda Davis is a teacher, artist, writer, and innovator who uses her words and pictures to light up the world with kindness. When she’s not busy creating, you can find her sipping tea, petting dogs, and exploring the natural wonders of The Bay State with her family and her rescue pup, Cora.

Amanda is represented by Jennifer Unter of The Unter Agency.
​
Amanda's award-winning picture book, 30,000 STITCHES is out now with WorthyKids/Hachette Book Group! Click here to learn more.

#RisingStarsinKidLit Spotlight Series: John Bray

​Rising Stars in KidLit began as a way to highlight my fellow kidlit creators who are working their tails off to birth their beautiful book babies into the world.  These interviews cast a light on the wonderful work of pre-published or pre-agented authors and author-illustrators who are destined to be stars! Today we’re hosting another Spotlight series with author, John Bray, so we can learn all about his path to publication! John has also offered to giveaway a signed copy of THE END to one lucky winner! Make sure to read all the way to THE END  (haha!) of the interview for details on how to enter the giveaway. Thanks for your generosity, John!
​Meet Rising Star
​
Author John Bray! Photo Credit John Bray © 2022 John Bray is an author of books for children and an assortment of other things. He also won a bookmark design contest in second grade. He lives in St. Charles, IL with his son and a rambunctious dog who’s the size of a modest cat.  His debut picture book, THE END, illustrated by Josh Cleland recently released with Starry Forest Books.   Josh is currently seeking agent representation.
Welcome, John and congrats on your upcoming release, THE END! I'm thrilled to have you here to celebrate your debut and chat about your journey! Thank you so much for your generous giveaway, too! Make sure to enter for your chance to win a signed copy of THE END! Details on how to enter at the bottom of the interview. AD: First off, congrats on your debut picture book, THE END, which releases this month with Starry Forest Books. Can you share a bit more about this delightful story?

JB: THE END is a slightly meta story about endings, beginnings, and the space between the two. It’s also sort of a mashup between Semisonic’s “Closing Time” (a late 90s classic) and "Little Gidding" by T.S. Eliot (modernist poet and author of everyone's favorite "Prufrock"). More than anything, it's a different, humorous perspective on endings, and I think that's something we could all use from time to time.

AD: Yes! What a perfect description! I love how it got me thinking about endings in a whole new light and reminded me that endings are just the beginning of something else with lots of exciting stuff happening in between! Artist, Josh Cleland, perfectly capture the fun and humor in the story, too!  John's debut children's book THE END, illustrated by Josh Cleland, recently released with Starry Forest Books. Let’s start with a speed round…Top three favorite children’s books of all time? Need a House? Call Ms. Mouse! (George Mendoza, Illustrated by Doris Susan Smith), Monkey with a Toolbelt, the whole series (Chris Monroe), and Shadow (Suzy Lee).Coffee, tea (or neither)? Coffee. Always coffee. I have very strong feelings about tea.Where is your safe place? Running. So anywhere and everywhere, I guess.Dogs, cats, (or neither)? Dogs. More specifically: My office mate, Lilly.Early bird or night owl? Early bird.Three words to describe what it takes to make it in the kidlit world… Patience, Creativity, incredibly-thick-skin (that’s one word because hyphens are magic)
Okay, now down to the serious stuff….
​
AD: Please dish us the dirt on who you are and your journey into the fabulous world of children’s books.

JB: So much dirt to dish. I’ll give the truncated version. I found my way to children’s books by way of the Young Author’s program in third grade (my book: The ABCs of Origami). That sparked my love for writing, and I’ve been writing ever since. However, between then and now, there was college, a job in marketing that I did not enjoy at all, working as a freelance writer (which I still do and enjoy), raising a son (also still in process), and a slew of other things. But children’s books were always there, either taking shape on the page or in my head.

AD: Did you always know you wanted to be an author? Have you explored other paths or had/have other jobs?

JB: Yes. But no. I originally went to college with a law focus (English, Pre-law). A series of big life events (so many of them) led me away from that path. In hindsight, it was the best thing that could have happened. I’d make a terrible lawyer. But my filing would be impeccable.

AD: Funny how we find our way back to our true passions. :)
John's furry officemate, Lily, taking a snooze. © 2022 John Bray AD: What topics or themes do you tend to focus on in your writing? Favorite genres you like to write in?

JB: This is such a difficult question. I think I gravitate toward making the intangible more tangible, but that’s not necessarily a focus. More than anything, I like the idea of telling a story kids want to get lost in in only 32 pages. Something fun.

AD: Breaking into the publishing industry is not easy! What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced thus far? What have you done to persevere?

JB: The hardest thing was just putting myself out there. Spending time and energy to create a story I believe in only to have it rejected over and over again.

AD: Yes! Being vulnerable as a creator is one of the hardest parts and as creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well.  With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing journey?

JB: Editing! I’m a notorious over-writer. Always wordy (which probably comes through in some of these answers). But I’m slowly becoming much better and cutting. Ruthlessly cutting. It’s a lot easier to say “kill your darlings” than it is to actually kill them.

AD: I completely relate! 
John's writing desk. © 2022 John Bray AD: In a similar vein, what do you feel are your strengths as an author? What makes your writing unique to you?

JB: I spend a lot of time focusing not just on the story or the words I use to tell it, but on how those words feel when you say them. How they clump together and flow, either out loud or in your own head. That doesn’t mean unnecessarily big words or onomatopoeias. It’s mostly about how the words fit together. Their relationship and rhythm. I think the experience of reading (or hearing) a book should be as exciting and engaging as the story itself.

AD: Yes, the feeling of the words is so important as is reading the story out loud so you can get a sense of this. Thanks for the reminder!

AD: What inspires your work?

JB: Anything and everything. Usually it’s something fairly random (odd sayings, quirky word combinations, or, as with THE END, song lyrics). And then the other part of that inspiration is time. Letting that little piece of something sit and grow before I try to write my way into a story. It doesn’t always work, but I always learn something along the way.

​AD: Tell us about your creative process and what you do to keep ideas flowing or what you do when feeling stuck?

JB: Running is a big help. When I have nothing to think about but putting one foot in front of the other, it clears my head and makes room for new ideas. I also run in the early morning when it’s quiet, and I think that adds to the experience. But sometimes, you just get stuck and you have to redirect that creative energy. For me, that means baking or drawing or helping my son (who is very mechanically minded and not at all interested in writing so much as a single sentence) solve a problem with one of his many projects.

AD: Having a clear mind is so important for creativity and inspiration. Glad you have your outlet with running. Double win that it's a healthy way to  clear the mind as well!
View from one of John's morning runs. © 2022 John Bray AD: What sorts of things have been most integral in your growth as an author?

JB: Three things: 1) An almost daily practice for 15-20 years. 2) My friend Sue (a 10-year friendship and one of the best things to come out of Twitter), who’s always helped me get out of my own head so I can move forward with my writing. 3) Parents who supported creativity and the arts as much as they supported math and science. There was no “that doesn’t sound like a financially safe career path” in my house growing up. But, in all honesty, I’ve been surrounded by supportive people from just about every angle, and I’m beyond grateful for their encouragement and belief in me and my work over the years.

AD: A support system is huge! It can be a roller coaster so having people who are there for the ride can keep us moving forward and motivated. 
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AD: What advice do you have for fellow kidlit creatives?

JB: Just. Stick. With it. If you have a story to tell — in pictures, words, or both — keep at it. Children want stories. They need them. It’s not an easy or fast road for most people (me included!) but if it’s something you’re passionate about, keep at it and remember that rejections aren’t personal.

AD: Right on! I remember a quote (I forget who said it) but it was something along the lines of-the only way you won't succeed is if you give up. I wholeheartedly believe that. Anything is possible if you just stick with it! Alright and finally, where can readers find out more about you and your work? 

Website: johnbraybooks.com 
Twitter: @jhnrbry
Instagram: @jhnrbry John, thank you so much for joining us for this special Spotlight feature on Rising Stars in KidLit! Congrats again on your debut, THE END. 

Join John's newsletter HERE to keep up with book news, events, and snag a free book and feel free to drop a comment below to support John and his work. Be sure to also subscribe to the Rising Stars series so you don't miss out on the next Rising Stars in Kidlit feature and follow along on Twitter at #RisingStarsinKidlit!

Speaking of snagging a free book..... Win a signed copy of  THE END!! TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY:

✅ Follow  John  &  Amanda  on Twitter
✅ Retweet this post on Twitter
✅ Tag 3 friends in the comments on Twitter 

A random winner will be selected to receive a signed copy of THE END!

The deadline for this contest is Tuesday, September 13th at 9AM EST. The winner will be contacted on Tuesday, September 13th and announced on Twitter. © Angela Wood Photography Hi! I'm Amanda!

Amanda Davis is a teacher, artist, writer, and innovator who uses her words and pictures to light up the world with kindness. When she’s not busy creating, you can find her sipping tea, petting dogs, and exploring the natural wonders of The Bay State with her family and her rescue pup, Cora.

Amanda is represented by Jennifer Unter of The Unter Agency.
​
Amanda's award-winning picture book, 30,000 STITCHES is out now with WorthyKids/Hachette Book Group! Click here to learn more.

#RisingStarsinKidLit Spotlight Series: Rebekah Lowell

​Rising Stars in KidLit began as a way to highlight my fellow kidlit creators who are working their tails off to birth their beautiful book babies into the world.  These interviews cast a light on the wonderful work of pre-published or pre-agented authors and author-illustrators who are destined to be stars! Today we’re hosting a special Spotlight series with author-illustrator, Rebekah Lowell so we can learn all about her path to publication! Rebekah has also offered to giveaway a signed copy of THE ROAD TO AFTER and some book swag to one lucky winner! Make sure to read all the way to the end of the interview for details on how to enter the giveaway. Thanks, Rebekah, yay!
​ Meet Rising Star
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Author-Illustrator Rebekah Lowell! Photo Credit © Elektrah Lowell Rebekah Lowell is an author/illustrator, and surface pattern designer with a passion for the natural world. As a survivor of domestic abuse, she’s found the natural world to be a peaceful healing ground. Her debut novel in verse, THE ROAD TO AFTER, published with Nancy Paulsen Books/Penguin Random House on May 10, 2022, and her debut picture book CATCHING FLIGHT, publishes with Doubleday Books for Young Readers in spring 2023. When not in her studio, you can find her outside—birding, gardening, nature journaling, rescuing birds for Avian Haven, and raising butterflies – often with her daughters, who she homeschools. Rebekah has a BFA in Illustration from the Rhode Island School of Design and an MFA in Children’s Literature and Illustration from Hollins University. Her artwork has been featured on the Maine Duck Stamp five times and she is also an art educator. She lives with her family in her hometown of Biddeford, Maine. ​Welcome, Rebekah and congrats on your new release, THE ROAD TO AFTER and your forthcoming title, CATCHING FLIGHT! Rebekah and I met several years back when we were both diving into the wonderful world of children's books so I'm thrilled to have her here to celebrate her successes and chat about her journey! Thank you so much, Rebekah, for your generous giveaway, too! Make sure to enter for your chance to win a signed copy of THE ROAD TO AFTER and book swag! Details on how to enter at the bottom of the interview. AD: Let’s start with a speed round…Top three favorite children’s books of all time? Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney, Ferdinand by Robert Lawson, illustrated by Munro Leaf, Miss Suzy by Miriam Young, illustrated by Arnold Lobel Coffee, tea (or neither)? Both—hot or iced. Where is your safe place? Outside in nature.Dogs, cats, (or neither)? Both! I love all animals. Birds, squirrels, deer, chipmunks, the lot of them. If I was a fairy in the Tinkerbell series, I would be Fawn.Early bird or night owl? As a young child I was an early bird. In high school I was both. Now I’m a night owl who wants to be an early bird, but I love what I do and work way too late at night. One of my goals for this year is to create a better schedule for myself because as an adult, I cannot be both night owl and early bird. I will need to choose.Three words to describe what it takes to make it in the kidlit world…  Resiliency,  Determination, and  Willingness to revise.
AD: Okay, now down to the serious stuff…Please dish us the dirt on who you are and your journey into the fabulous world of children’s books.

RL: When I was a senior at The Rhode Island School of Design, I took a class called “Picture and Word.” It was taught by Judy-Sue Goodwin-Sturges and Rebecca Bond. I fell in love with the art form that is the picture book; how words danced with images but didn’t repeat them. I fell in love with writing all over again. I used to write so much as a child, then as an adult, I journaled and took poetry classes while I was at RISD. My creative heart soaked it all in. I always knew I would be an artist, but during that class, I knew I wanted to write and illustrate for children.

Just before graduation however, my plans came to a halt as I found myself trapped in an abusive relationship. Professors saw it. Peers saw it, but I didn’t know how to get out of it. It was too much to understand, let alone break free of. I started doubting myself and the abuse took an even stronger hold on my life. Before I knew it, I lost myself completely. Ten years later, I finally escaped. After becoming settled in a safe place, I went back to school at Hollins University and pursued my dream of writing and illustrating for children by earning my dual MFA in Children’s Literature and Illustration. I read A LOT. I learned A LOT. I created A LOT.

Wrote and illustrated my novel in verse. (More on this HERE)

Wrote and illustrated picture books and pulled a portfolio of work together.

I brought my portfolio and projects to Big Sur Cape Cod in the fall of 2017 and workshopped them. 
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In 2018 I brought my illustration portfolio and a picture book dummy to NESCBWI and met with Wendi Gu of Janklow & Nesbit Associates. She offered rep, so I let other agents I had submitted to know, and I ended up receiving other offers that week as well, but ultimately accepted Wendi’s offer. (More on signing with Wendi HERE)  Wendi and I went out on submission with my middle grade novel in verse first and it sold less than a year after working together. (This book is now out with Nancy Paulsen Books as THE ROAD TO AFTER.)  Shortly after sending that book on submission, my novel in verse (not yet sold) won the Susan P. Bloom Award. Within the week, I received multiple offers, one of which was from Nancy Paulsen!  Signing the contract on my first book deal was a momentous event for me. So many emotions welled up and it felt like this career was going to work out after all.
Rebekah's debut MG novel in verse, THE ROAD TO AFTER, is out now with Nancy Paulsen Books! Photo Credit © Rebekah Lowell At the end of 2020, my first agent and I parted ways, and by January of 2021 I signed with Paige Terlip of Andrea Brown Literary Agency. This was a full circle celebration for me because back in 2014 I met Andrea Brown herself at Hollins and had loved and admired ABLA ever since. I’m so grateful to be at this amazing agency.

Just before signing with Paige, I tweeted an illustration that caught the attention of editor Frances Gilbert of Doubleday Books for Young Readers and she asked if I had a picture book that went with it. I had, but it was nonfiction, and she had previously declined (because she doesn’t pub a lot of nonfiction), so I told her I would come up with something for her, and I did, and I sent her a picture of the poem I wrote in my notebook. She asked me to type it up and send it to her, so I did. 

After signing with Paige, we sold that picture book, now called CATCHING FLIGHT, and it will publish with Doubleday Books for Young Readers in March of 2023. Text revisions are done, interior art is done, and at the time of this post, I’m working on the cover art!

What’s next:  Other picture books and another novel on sub. Other picture books and a third novel in the works.

AD: Wow! You've had quite the journey, Rebekah. It seems like at the heart of it all was finding the strength to never give up and follow your dreams. I'm so glad you persevered and now others will have the opportunity to learn from your writing and art and be inspired to follow their own dreams. It also seems that art and writing have always been a passion of yours. Is that the case? Did you always know you wanted to be an author-illustrator? Have you explored other paths or had/have other jobs? RL: I had considered psychology, art therapy, horticulture, and botany. As a very young child I thought I wanted to be an apothecary or a singer. But all of this was always in addition to being an artist. I always wanted to be an artist. I could draw before I could walk, which I know happens for others too, but I drew A LOT. I painted in oils when I was seven. I sold my first paintings before I was 10 and won my first show ribbon at 14. I’ve always painted and always will.

AD: That's impressive that you sold your first work so young!! :)  What topics or themes do you tend to focus on in your writing/art? Favorite genres you like to write in or favorite art materials/techniques?

RL: Nature, always. Resiliency, determination, hope. Nature as healer. Middle grade novels in verse. Picture books, also in verse. I guess I’m a poet. I’m a painter and a poet.
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For picture books, I love working in water-based traditional media like watercolor, gouache, acrylagouache, colored pencils, gel pens, and more.  For middle grade, the interior work usually needs to be in grayscale, so there are limitations on materials, but I embrace this. I love using graphite dust and Blackwing pencils on vellum for a rich, layered feeling (a technique I learned from Brian Lies) but I also love painting with black ink.

AD: I took a workshop with Brian Lies at one of the NESCBWI conferences, and we practiced the graphite dust technique. It was so much fun. I LOVE how the interiors of THE ROAD TO AFTER turned out. That was a perfect style and material for the story.  Themes of nature tend to show up in my work as well. It's always been a constant and there is so much we can learn from it. I love how nature is so evident in all the work you do, from illustrations, to fine art, to surface patterns, you can tell that it's a meaningful part of your life and work.  Rebekah's favorite drawing tools! Photo Credit © Rebekah Lowell Grayscale interior from THE ROAD TO AFTER. Photo Credit © Rebekah Lowell AD: Breaking into the publishing industry is not easy! What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced thus far? What have you done to persevere?

RL: A few things: Keeping hope alive when I was told (by an abusive person) that I would never be published.  Over the course of receiving many rejections, I learned how to be thankful for them. Even though a “no” can be disappointing, and it can feel like the sky will never part when you’ve been submitting for years, you wouldn’t want to partner with an editor or agent who isn’t right for your work. Consider feedback, if any, provided with a decline, but only apply it if it resonates with you. I learned to appreciate rejection because I once heard somewhere that “Rejection points you in the right direction.” I fully believe it.

I have also celebrated the milestones, big and small. I have fun. I stash chocolate in my studio and will find any excuse to bring my daughters out for ice cream. (Not that I need one, but I do love celebrating all the things.)

AD: I love that saying. It's so true! Sometimes it's easy to get lost in all the rejections and as creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well.  With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing/illustration journey?

RL: Not giving up. Going after it even when I was at my lowest, just having left and still not sure of my footing. Having the belief that one day being published would happen, while I was at my darkest time not even permitted to leave the house.  I just kept thinking toward the day, hoping, only the tiniest hope, that it would happen. I read the few books we had to my daughters, over and over, imagining that one day they would be able to hold one made by their mom. Now they can.

AD: YES! How special! I remember I heard someone once say, the only way you won't succeed is if you give up. You never gave up and  remained hopeful. We have to look for the bright spots in order to keep us forging ahead.   In a similar vein, what do you feel are your strengths as an author/illustrator? What makes your art/writing unique to you?

RL: I think I have a story to tell and it’s going to be told over a string of books. Each one, though different will relate to the other to tell a smaller part of a greater whole. The narrative will be all of my projects combined. One book will speak of nature as healer and how to start over (THE ROAD TO AFTER), another book will talk about freedom on the wings of birds (CATCHING FLIGHT), the next are to be determined, but I love the idea that each project will be a different facet of the same stone. 

AD: What inspires your work?

RL: Nature and our human connection to nature; how we interact with the wild spaces around us and what we do to serve the natural world and how it serves us back. Nature is Rebekah's safe space and inspiration. Photo Credit © Rebekah Lowell AD: Tell us about your creative process and what you do to keep ideas flowing or what you do when feeling stuck?

RL: My creative process isn’t much of a literal process. This might be rather disappointing, but I don’t have the opportunity to plan out the perfect workday because I’m also a homeschooling mom, housekeeper, part-time children’s librarian, volunteer bird-rescuer, and because my life is different each day, I don’t have a set routine. I find pockets of time where I can work, and I often bring work to appointments, waiting rooms, and trips. This often leaves me feeling like I work all the time and I’m left wondering what it would be like to have business hours. I struggle with work/life balance.  I don’t believe in “inspiration striking” but I am always thinking, and sometimes ideas do come at the oddest times, and I always have a notebook to jot down in. I also use shower notes, and can’t stand doing nothing, so I’m always prepared. For better or for worse, I’m always working on something. I do, however, enjoy winding down by gardening, raising butterflies, taking hot baths, and long walks. It’s my nature to keep busy, but I’m also trying to do better with down time for mental and physical health. It’s a goal, but a work-in-progress like anything.  T o keep ideas flowing: that is not an issue for me. The issue would be how to make them stop.
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What do I do when I feel stuck? I go outside and look around, look up, look down. I find wonder.

​AD: Thank you for your honesty. Work/life balance is such a challenge! It's refreshing to hear that sometimes you just have to fit things in where you can and find pockets of time that work for you. I think most of us can relate to that and feel better knowing we're not alone in that struggle. A work-in-progress, for sure! Speaking of works-in-progress, what sorts of things have been most integral in your growth as an author-illustrator? ​RL:my daughtersfamilycommunityRISDMary Jane Begin (we worked together at both RISD and Hollins)Hollins University and all my professors and peers thereSCBWIBrian Lies during the NESCBWI 4x4 Mentorship Programmy prior agent Wendi Gumy current agent Paige Terlip of ABLAwalks outsidecritique groups12x12Immersion with Bonnie ChristineFlourish with Bonnie Christinethe Mastermind group I’m in (WONDER with Sarah Rafferty)gardeningbirdingraising monarchscoffeechocolatesmall rewardsjournalingmaking lists in notebooksmy editor for THE ROAD TO AFTER, Nancy Paulsen, and my art director, Marikka Tamura
my editor for CATCHING FLIGHT, Frances Gilbert, and my art director, Nicole de las Heras
  A sneak peek of Rebekah's work space! Photo Credit © Rebekah Lowell AD: What advice do you have for fellow kidlit creatives?

RL: Find a group of peers, or just a few, who you can share pages and artwork with, but also share joys and sorrows with. There is a way to be professional, but there is also a way to care about one another throughout this process because it’s not easy. When you have a community who can be there for each other, the journey is better.   

AD: Where can readers find out more about you and your work? 

My website: www.rebekahlowell.com
@RebekahLowell on all the socials Rebekah, thank you so much for joining us for this special Spotlight feature on Rising Stars in KidLit! Congrats again on THE ROAD TO AFTER. We look forward to your debut picture book, CATCHING FLIGHT, too! It sure has been fun and inspirational watching you rise AND shine! Thank you for telling your story and for your honesty and vulnerability. So many wonderful nuggets of wisdom for all to learn from.

For all the art lovers out there, join Rebekah's newsletter to receive a free art supplies guide! Sign up HERE!  And don't miss out on the opportunity to read the opening pages of her book HERE! Feel free to drop a comment below to support Rebekah and her work. Be sure to subscribe to the Rising Stars series so you don't miss out on the next Rising Stars in Kidlit feature and follow along on Twitter at #RisingStarsinKidlit! Win a signed copy of THE ROAD TO AFTER plus book swag!! TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY:

✅ Follow Rebekah &  Amanda on Twitter
✅ Retweet this post on Twitter
✅ Tag 3 friends in the comments on Twitter 

A random winner will be selected to receive a signed copy of THE ROAD TO AFTER plus some fun book swag!

The deadline for this contest is Wednesday, June 8th at 9AM EST. The winner will be contacted on Wednesday, June 8th and announced on Twitter. Photo Credit © Angela Wood Photography Hi! I'm Amanda!

Amanda Davis is a teacher, artist, writer, and innovator who uses her words and pictures to light up the world with kindness. When she’s not busy creating, you can find her sipping tea, petting dogs, and exploring the natural wonders of The Bay State with her family and her rescue pup, Cora.

Amanda is represented by Jennifer Unter of The Unter Agency.
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Amanda's award-winning picture book, 30,000 STITCHES is out now with WorthyKids/Hachette Book Group! Click here to learn more.

#RisingStarsinKidLit Susan Johnston Taylor

© Amanda Davis Art Rising Stars in KidLit is back in 2022! Hooray! Rising Stars in KidLit began as a way to highlight my fellow kidlit creators who are working their tails off to birth their beautiful book babies into the world.  These interviews cast a light on the wonderful work of pre-published or pre-agented authors and author-illustrators who are destined to be stars! Meet Rising Star
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Author Susan Johnston Taylor! Photo Credit: BK Studios Photographers Susan Johnston Taylor is a Writing Barn fellow and author of Colorful Creatures: Poems About Animals in Surprising Shades (Gnome Road Publishing, 2023). Her poetry also appears in 10.10 Poetry Anthology: Celebrating 10 in 10 different ways. As a freelance writer for over a decade, she’s written over a dozen titles for the educational market and published nonfiction articles in children’s magazines including FACES, Highlights and Scout Life. Her writing for grownups has appeared in The Atlantic, The Boston Globe, Entrepreneur and Fast Company. She lives in Austin, Texas with her husband and their two rescue dogs.

Susan is currently seeking agent representation.

Welcome, Susan and congrats on your forthcoming title with Gnome Road Publishing! I'm so excited to have you here and chat about your journey into kidlit! AD: Let’s start with a speed round… Top three favorite children’s books of all time? So hard to choose but here goes: The Music of Life: Bartolomeo Cristofori & The Invention of the Piano by Elizabeth Rusch, illustrated by Marjorie Priceman, 7 Ate 9 by Tara Lazar, illustrated by Ross MacDonald,The Rabbit Listened by Cori DoerrfeldCoffee, tea (or neither)? Tea Where is your safe place? Reading in a hammockDogs, cats, (or neither)? DogsEarly bird or night owl? Night owlThree words to describe what it takes to make it in the kidlit world… Tenacity, curiosity, focus
AD: Okay, now down to the serious stuff…Please dish us the dirt on who you are and your journey into the fabulous world of children’s books.

SJT: I’ve always been passionate about writing. As a kid and teen, I wrote poetry, American Girl fan fiction, even an unfinished musical based on The Crucible (for an 8th grade book report). As an adult, I worked as a freelance writer, crafting press releases, magazine articles, and website copy.
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But I burned out, so my husband encouraged me to try more creative writing to balance out the articles on business topics. I glanced at our dog and blurted out the first thing I could think of: “maybe I’ll write a picture book about our dog!” I knew nothing about kidlit so this seemed ludicrous. He urged me to try it anyway. Sebastian, the Little Red Rescue Dog went through many, many revisions. I doubt it’ll ever get published, but it did spark my interest in kidlit. I took my first picture book class at The Writing Barn in fall 2016 and I’ve been hooked ever since. I’m now a Writing Barn fellow. While querying agents and pursuing traditional publishing, I’ve written for children’s magazines including Highlights for Children and Scout Life, published a poem in an anthology for kids, and wrote over a dozen work-for-hire books for the educational market (Ride Across Time is now out and several more historical fiction books for kids and teens are forthcoming).

My trade debut comes out with Gnome Road Publishing in 2023! Colorful Creatures: Poems About Animals in Surprising Shades introduces kids to different poetic forms as well as animals like the blue-footed booby and the violet snail, presented in rainbow order.

AD: I love that your initial inspiration for writing for children came from your rescue pup. My rescue pup, Cora,  also inspired one of my own early stories, titled Where Are You Now?  Rescue pups really do make the best muses. BIG congrats on all your published works and now your trade debut! Hooray! The ocean, poetry, and animals are a few of my favorite things. I can't wait to read!  It sounds both fun and informative. Susan with her dog, Sebastian, (who inspired her kidlit journey) Photo Credit: Amanda Hoffman Art AD: Did you always know you wanted to be an author? Have you explored other paths or had/have other jobs?

SJT: Most of my jobs as an adult have been writing-related, but my interest in writing books for children came later. I’m also a professional singer and a former party princess (dressing up costume for children’s birthday parties).

AD: That's so fun! These sounds like great ideas for picture books :)
What topics or themes do you tend to focus on in your writing? Favorite genres you like to write in?

SJT: Whether through board books, picture books, chapter books, or middle grade, I write stories that spread kindness and curiosity.

AD: Breaking into the publishing industry is not easy! What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced thus far? What have you done to persevere?

SJT: Finding the right industry partners have been challenging: the right critique partners (many are Writing Barn classmates), the right mentors, the right editor who gets my work. I now have a wonderful group of critique partners, and my editor at Gnome Road is fantastic. From our very first Zoom, I sensed that we shared similar visions for my book.

I’m still trying to find the right agent, but when I’m feeling discouraged, I turn to my critique partners and members of the Courage to Create (a community created by Bethany Hegedus of the Writing Barn) for support. Pre-pandemic, a multi-published author told me that one of my manuscripts had a completely unmarketable premise, and I just wanted to curl up in the fetal position and cry. Instead, I went to a critique partner’s house for our monthly meeting. Their words of encouragement (and chocolate) helped a lot! That manuscript has since gotten some interest, so fingers crossed for good news.

AD: As creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well.  With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing journey?

SJT: I’m proud of selling my debut picture book on my own. I wanted an agent and had several almost-offers but by late 2020, I was nearly out of agents to query. They kept saying they loved the writing but weren’t sure they could sell another poetry book. My critique partners and I still believed in that project, so I decided that in 2021, I would start submitting directly to publishers. By early March, I had an editor interested! As we say in the Courage to Create, “we believe our books into being.” I really feel like that’s what I did, so I’m glad I didn’t shelf that project or wait for someone else’s approval before submitting to editors.

AD: That's awesome, Susan. I think it's so important for fellow creators to hear the different paths to publishing. Thanks for the reminder that there's no one way to succeed in the industry and the main thing is that we never give up and believe in our work! Susan signing her contract with Gnome Road. Photo Credit: Steven Taylor AD: In a similar vein, what do you feel are your strengths as an author? What makes your writing unique to you?

SJT: I’ve written product descriptions for freelance writing clients and figuring out how to capture the essence of a watch or a necklace in 140 characters or less has prepared me well for the brevity of picture books. My past writing experience also taught me to be open to revision and to take the time to choose the exact write word to really build a scene. I also love puns, so I have several punny manuscripts!

AD: What inspires your work?

SJT: Engaging with the world: reading a variety of books for all ages, listening to podcasts, reminiscing about childhood memories with my brother, visiting museums, attending concerts, taking walks, goofing off with my dogs.

​AD: Tell us about your creative process and what you do to keep ideas flowing or what you do when feeling stuck?

SJT: If I’m feeling stuck on a manuscript or revision, it’s usually time to put that project away and go for a walk or work on something else. My challenge is not a lack of ideas (I still have idea lists from several years of Storystorm): it’s refining those ideas and figuring out how to execute on them in the most engaging and kid-friendly way possible. 

AD: Walks always seem to do wonders and yes, refining is a tricky part of the process. 

What sorts of things have been most integral in your growth as an author?

SJT: Lots of classes, conferences, and critiques! There are so many opportunities to hone your craft (much of it available online at a reasonable cost), so over time, I’ve learned to be choosey whenever I sign up for a class, conference, or critique. Who’s teaching the class, speaking at the conference, or doing that paid critique? Do they write or edit the same kinds of books I want to write? Have any of my critique partners taken that class or gone to that conference and did they find it useful? Is this manuscript even ready for a paid critique? Asking these kinds of questions before I sign up boosts the likelihood that I’ll get what I’m hoping to get out of each opportunity.

AD: That's such a great way to assess what may be worthy and valuable. There are so many options out there that it can be hard to choose (I often have FOMO about it!) but reflecting on these questions can help narrow down our choices and make sure we are maintaining a good balance of classes, conferences, etc. with writing and creating. 

What advice do you have for fellow kidlit creatives?

SJT: Find your people! Although it’s your name on the front of your book, you can get a tremendous amount of support, commiseration, and helpful advice from others who are in the trenches with you. If you’re taking a class, maybe you’ll find a critique partner or you could form a critique group with your classmates. If you meet someone at a conference who likes similar books, maybe you can stay in touch and bounce ideas off each other. You could join a Facebook or Clubhouse group for kidlit creators, participate in a Twitter chat, or connect with other illustrators on Instagram. Just don’t go it alone.

​AD: Yes! Putting ourselves out there and connecting with others is so important. Speaking of, where can readers find out more about you and your work? 

SJT: Learn more about my writing for kids on my website: http://staylorwrites.com/writing-for-kids/index.html
Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/UrbanMuseWriter Thank you so much for sharing your insights and creative journey, Susan! We can’t wait to read Colorful Creatures and see more of your books in the hands of young readers! Feel free to drop a comment below to support Susan and her work. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss out on the next Rising Starts in Kidlit feature and follow along on Twitter at #RisingStarsinKidlit! Photo Credit: Angela Wood Photography Hi! I'm Amanda!

Amanda Davis is a teacher, artist, writer, and innovator who uses her words and pictures to light up the world with kindness. When she’s not busy creating, you can find her sipping tea, petting dogs, and exploring the natural wonders of The Bay State with her family and her rescue pup, Cora.

Amanda is represented by Jennifer Unter of The Unter Agency.
​
Amanda's award-winning picture book, 30,000 STITCHES is out now with WorthyKids/Hachette Book Group! Click here to learn more.

Multicultural Children's Book Day

Today is Multicultural Children's Book Day, and I'm celebrating by writing reviews for some amazing diverse chapter books. Before I dive into my reviews, here is a little bit more information about What Multicultural Children's Book Day is and how it came to be. 

Founded in 2012 by Valarie Budayr from Audrey Press Books and Mia Wenjen from Pragmatic Mom, Multicultural Children's Book Day grew out of their own frustrations with the lack of diverse books for their own families. As a result, they decided to team up to create an event that would help raise awareness around children's books that celebrate diversity but also get these books into classrooms and libraries around the world. This event is now known as Multicultural Children's Book Day (MCBD) and is celebrated every year on the last Friday in January. Multicultural Children's Book Day (MCBD) is an online and offline celebration of thousands of supporters, educators, parents, caregivers, book reviewers, and quality authors and publishers who team up to spotlight diversity in children through YA literature. Over the course of its eight year run, the MCBD non-profit has donated over 8,000 books to kids and the intitiave has expanded offline to classrooms programs, celebrations and global connections. 

I'm excited to participate this year by reviewing Dumpling Day written by Meera Sriram, Illustrated by Inés de Antuñano and published by Barefoot Books.  MY REVIEW: A DELICIOUS DELIGHT!
​ Dumpling Day was a delicious delight. With a wide array of different types of dumplings being shared, readers are introduced to a variety of cultures and diverse families as they follow along with Sriram’s rollicking rhyming text which (BONUS!!) includes counting from 1-10! ​
Antunano’s bright, fun, and textured illustrations leave you feeling happy and hungry! You’re left with a very special treat of 10 yummy recipes and information on where each originated from in the back matter. This book is great for an at-home read but also a wonderful addition to school and library collections as an introduction to culture, culinary arts, counting, and geography! I highly recommend! I want to give a BIG thank you to Barefoot Books for gifting me this wonderful book to review and helping me diversify my bookshelf. I can't wait to try out some of the delicious dumpling recipes with my family. Thank you to all the organizers involved in Multicultural Children's Book Day for helping us raise awareness around the importance of diverse books in our homes and schools and helping to get these wonderful books into the hands of children around the world. Cheers!

For more MCBD fun, follow along on social media at #ReadYourWorld!!
BONUS! Check out this MCBD Diversity Book List & Activities for Teachers and Parents!

MCBD 2022 is honored to be Supported by these Medallion Sponsors!
​SUPER PLATINUM: Make A Way Media
PLATINUM: Language Lizard
GOLD: Barefoot Books, KidLitTV, Candlewick, Capstone, Abrams Books
SILVER: Pack-n-Go Girls, Charlotte Riggle, Kimberly Gordon Biddle  
BRONZE: Carole P. Roman, Patrice McLaurin, Dyesha and Triesha McCants/McCants Squared, Redfin.com, Redfin Canada, Redfin Mortgage, Redfin/Title Forward, Create & Educate, Star Bright Books, Vivian Kirkfield, Dr. Eleanor Wint, Kind World Publishing, Snowflake Stories, Lisa Wee, SONGJU MA, Melissa Stoller, J.C. Kato and J.C.², Crystel Patterson, Audrey Press, Pragmaticmom, TimTimTom, Wisdom Tales 
MCBD 2022 is honored to be Supported by these Author Sponsors!Charlene Mosley (official MCBD2022 Poster Creator)
Illustrator Isabelle Roxas (Class Kit Poster Creator)
Alva Sachs, Brianna Carter, Ebony Zay Zay, Rita Bhandari, Gwen Jackson, Lois Petren/The 5 Enchanted Mermaids, Valerie Williams-Sanchez and Valorena Publishing, Josh Funk, Afsaneh Moradian, Eugenia Chu, Maritza Martínez Mejía, Diana Huang, Kathleen Burkinshaw, CultureGroove, Sandra Elaine Scott, Dorena Williamson, Veronica Appleton, Alejandra Domenzain, Lauren Muskovitz and Sandfish Publishing, Tonya Duncan Ellis, Kimberly Lee, Susan Schaefer Bernardo & Illustrator Courtenay Fletcher, Nancy Tupper Ling, Winsome Hudson-Bingham, Amanda Hsiung-Blodgett, Sivan Hong, Michael Genhart, Debbie Dadey, Elizabeth Cureton, Stephanie Wildman, Maryann Jacob, Sherri Maret, Rochelle Melander, Dia Mixon, Kiyanda and Benjamin Young, Shereen Rahming, Linda Thornburg and Katherine Archer,  Rebecca Flansburg and BA Norrgard , Maxine Schur  Natalie McDonald-Perkins
MCBD 2022 is Honored to be Supported by our CoHosts and Global CoHosts!
MCBD 2022 is Honored to be Supported by these Media Partners!
Check out MCBD's Multicultural Books for Kids Pinterest Board!
FREE RESOURCES from Multicultural Children’s Book Day
Diversity Book Lists & Activities for Teachers and Parents
Homeschool Diverse Kidlit Booklist & Activity Kit
FREE Teacher Classroom Activism and Activists Kit
FREE Teacher Classroom Empathy Kit
FREE Teacher Classroom Kindness Kit
FREE Teacher Classroom Physical and Developmental Challenges Kit
FREE Teacher Classroom Poverty Kit
FREE Homeschool Diverse Kidlit Booklist & Activity Kit
FREE Teacher Classroom Raising Awareness on Systemic Racism in America Classroom Kit
Gallery of Our Free Posters
FREE Diversity Book for Classrooms Program
Join us tonight, at 9 pm EST for the 9th annual Multicultural Children's Book Day Twitter Party! Be sure and follow MCBD and Make A Way Media on Twitter!
There will be an 8-Book Bundle giveaway every 5 minutes plus Bonus Prizes as well! *** US and Global participants welcome. **
Follow the hashtag #ReadYourWorld to join the conversation, connect with like-minded parts, authors, publishers, educators, organizations, and librarians. See you all very soon on Twitter!
Hashtag: Don’t forget to connect with us on social media and be sure and look for/use our official hashtag #ReadYourWorld.

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#RisingStarsinKidLit Erin Siska

Artwork © 2021 Amanda Davis Art Rising Stars continues in 2021! Hooray! The goal of this series is to highlight my fellow kidlit creators who are working their tails off to birth their beautiful book babies into the world.  These interviews will cast a light on the wonderful work of these pre-published authors and author-illustrators who are destined to be stars!
​Meet Rising Star
​
Author-Illustrator Erin Siska! Photo Credit © 2021 Emily Jahr Erin Treacy Siska has previously worked as an editor and a lawyer. Erin loves reading and exercising. She has read approximately 6,000 picture books since her daughter was born. Erin is a member of SCBWI; Storyteller Academy; the Florida Bar; a member and troop leader of the Girl Scouts; and a member and supporter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Her law review article about freedom of speech was published in the Communications and Entertainment Law Journal at UC Hastings College of the Law. Erin is now working toward her dream of becoming a picture book author-illustrator. Erin is currently seeking agent representation.  AD: Welcome, Erin! I'm so excited to have you on the blog.
Let’s start with a speed round…
​Top three favorite children’s books of all time? Gah! It’s totally impossible to pick just three but it’s deadline time so here goes...Goodnight Moon (classic) Not Quite Narwhal (contemporary) The Crayons’ Christmas - because how often do you get to the third book in a series that is just as funny and clever and original as the first, and even takes it to the next level with an interactive component of paper dolls, pullout game, and build-your-own dreidel? So huge props to Drew Daywalt and Oliver Jeffers on that one! Coffee, tea (or neither)? Coffee on the daily. Tea when I’m sick.Where is your safe place? With my family. Dogs, cats, (or neither)? Dogs.Early bird or night owl? These days, early bird. Three words to describe what it takes to make it in the kidlit world…Grit, luck, and Big time, Patience.   
AD: Okay, now down to the serious stuff….please dish us the dirt on who you are and your journey into the fabulous world of children’s books.
 
ES: I am currently a stay-at-home mom and I live with my husband, two children, and rescue dog in Fort Lauderdale. After reading thousands of picture books to my children, I started to say “I should write one of these!” I started writing creatively again over the past year, while isolating during the pandemic, and I am so glad that I did. 

AD: A bright spot from this pandemic! How lovely! :) Fort Lauderdale is sometimes called the Venice of America because it has so many canals. Photo Credit © 2021 Erin Siska AD: Did you always know you wanted to be an author-illustrator? Have you explored other paths or had/have other jobs?
 
ES: I have always enjoyed writing but my first career was lawyer because I had to earn a living. I became a stay-at-home mom after my second child was born and my wonderful husband supports us all now. Thank you Joe, we love and appreciate you! Before lawyering, I worked in retail, in restaurants, in sandwich shops, and in the law library.  Writing my stories is way more fun than negotiating and drafting insurance contracts and shareholder and employment agreements, although the money is not quite as good (*coughs* no money from writing yet. Zero.) 

AD: So good to hear you are finding the fun in creating. That's so important. Sometimes it's easy to lose sight of the fun factor as we work towards our publishing goals. Thanks for the reminder to HAVE FUN!
Erin and her husband Joe. Photo Credit © 2021 Erin Siska AD: What topics or themes do you tend to focus on in your writing/art? Favorite genres you like to write in or favorite art materials/techniques?
 
ES: In writing, I usually focus on character-driven fiction picture books although I have one non-fiction manuscript for ages 8-12 about the recent attack on the U.S. Capitol that I am excited about. And I’m also working on a chapter book series. I like quirky characters, gentle humor, and an emphasis on good mental health. It is a subject that is very important to me as someone who manages anxiety and depression and has a family history of mental illness. Laughter is often the best medicine. I focus on themes such as being your authentic self, kindness, inclusion, the power of positive thinking, and having a growth mindset. In art, I like clean, simple lines and lots of colors! 

AD: Good for you for tackling the recent attacks on the Capitol and for creating stories that focus on mental health. I'm a big advocate for children needing all types of stories that explore a range of topics and emotions. They need it all! Erin’s 2021 sketchbook. Photo Credit © 2021 Erin Siska
​AD: Breaking into the publishing industry is not easy! What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced thus far? What have you done to persevere?
 
ES: For me, it’s been having patience! I thought the wheels of justice turned slowly but the legal field’s got nothing on the publishing industry. I had to take a deep breath, slow down, and remind myself that it’s about the journey and not the destination. Thank goodness I have my critique partners to talk things over with and provide support and encouragement! 

AD: CP's are the best!!

​

"I believe that the perfect is the enemy of the good."

​AD: As creators (and humans), we tend to focus on the flaws of our creations or areas for improvement. This helps us grow and develop, but we need not forget the many things we are doing well.  With this in mind, what has been your biggest accomplishment or something you are most proud of thus far on your writing/illustration journey?
 
I’m really proud of creating my author website all by myself. It might not look like much, and it took me FOREVER, but as a technologically-challenged person this was a huge win for me! And I love that I have carved out a little corner of cyberspace just for me. 

AD: Your author website looks great! Congrats! Every small success is worthy of celebration on this journey! Middle-Grade Erin :) Photo Credit © 2021 Erin Siska AD: In a similar vein, what do you feel are your strengths as an author/illustrator? What makes your art/writing unique to you?
 
ES: I am big on characters, so I focus on them first then the plot, dialogue, illustration style, and everything else flows from there. I love my characters so much! As the mom of two young children; host of a zillion play dates and Girl Scout meetings; and class parent, I have a pretty good ear for dialogue and will use funny things the kids say in my manuscripts.
 
AD: What inspires your work?
 
ES: There are ideas all around - from my children, from going on walks, art and music, everywhere.  Florida has the best sunsets! Photo Credit © 2021 Erin Siska AD: Tell us about your creative process and what you do to keep ideas flowing or what you do when feeling stuck?
 
ES: I’m big on accountability, so having set meeting times with some of my critique groups keeps me on track. If I have a meeting coming up, it puts a good type of pressure on me to submit something, even if it’s not polished or even finished. Just get something done, and send it in! It’s a great motivator. 
 
Regarding my creative process, I tend to let ideas percolate for a long time in my mind before putting them on paper. Then when I’m ready, it just flows. I might do a few rounds of revisions, especially if big-picture ones are needed, but I don’t like nitpicking at my manuscripts. I guess I’m a bit of a brat that way, but I believe that the perfect is the enemy of the good and my manuscripts are never going to be perfect in everyone’s mind anyway. So I may as well just get them out there! 

AD: The perfect is the enemy of the good...I love that, and so true!   
AD: What sorts of things have been most integral in your growth as an author-illustrator?
 
ES: I owe a huge debt of gratitude to my critique partners who have inspired me and helped me grow as a writer. And Storyteller Academy has taught me how to draw and how to think like an artist, in addition to helping me on the writing front. ​ PB Erin rocking out to Lionel Richie in her favorite purple overalls (with friends Pia and Mary). Photo Credit © 2021 Erin Siska AD: What advice do you have for fellow kidlit creatives? 
 
ES: I would recommend engaging with the KidLit community and connecting with other writers and artists because it is such a warm, collegial, and creative  community and that is a rare and very wonderful thing! 

AD: I completely agree!! 
Where can readers find out more about you and your work? 
 
- My Twitter is @erinsiska5
- My website is www.erinsiska.com.
 
Oh! And can I give a few shoutouts before I go?

AD: Of course!!! 
 
I would like to thank the critique partners in my StoryStellars and Inkalicious critique groups...
 
…Yana Yakubchik for her beautiful art
 
...Tara Lazar for Storystorm
 
...Julie Hedlund for her 12 Days of Christmas for Writers
 
La-dee-da
 
...Justin Colon for #PBChat
 
...Mindy Alyse Weiss from my Florida SCBWI for #PBParty and her sparkle
 
Dee-dee-dum
 
...Chris Nantais for his new word counting tool for Google docs. You can find his PB Workshop at https://discord.com/invite/KSYfkNg
 
...Mark Wright for #TacoPitch. It was so much fun!!! 
 
La-dee-dum
 
...Ally Enz, my peak performance partner
 
...thank you Kaitlyn Leann Sanchez, Ciara O’Neal and Vivian Kirkfield for your wonderful writing contests! 
 
...my family and friends for their support
 
La-dee-da-dee-dum
 
...and I would like to thank the Academy - I mean, the SCBWI -  for making this all possible! Well, I hear the orchestra playing me off now. OK. Byyyye! 
 
Thank you so much for this opportunity and this interview, Amanda! 
AD: You're welcome, Erin! It was my pleasure and what a wonderful list of shout-outs!! Thank you so much for stopping by the blog! I appreciate you sharing a bit about yourself and contributing to the Rising Stars in Kidlit series We can't wait to read your stories and see your art!  Feel free to drop a comment below to support Erin and her work, and be sure to subscribe so you don't miss out and follow along on Twitter at #RisingStarsinKidlit! Hi! I'm Amanda!

Amanda Davis is a teacher, artist, writer, and innovator who uses her words and pictures to light up the world with kindness. When she’s not busy creating, you can find her sipping tea, petting dogs, and exploring the natural wonders of The Bay State with her partner and rescue pup, Cora.

Amanda is represented by Jennifer Unter of The Unter Agency.
​
Her debut picture book, 30,000 STITCHES is available NOW wherever books are sold!  CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE 30,000 STITCHES