On my mind this week:
Keen-eyed readers will have noticed I missed a week! We went away for winter break/ski week/President’s week to Whistler for a few days of skiing. It’s been nice to get back into the rhythm of school and work after a refreshing break.
I’ve been catching up with work this week and diving into a new nonfiction project. I’m at my favorite stage of the process, researching and falling into rabbit holes. At some point I need to dig my way out and get writing! What are you working on right now?
ICYMI I interviewed Keila V. Dawson on Creator Chat and she gave some amazing advice for writers about what to do while you’re trying to get published (hint: community, critique, and research.)
This week on Kidlit Survival Guide we dived into the murky waters of contracts. And on Monday Vicky is talking Book Swag. You can see what we have planned the next few months here.
For Writers
If you’re in the mood for a challenge, quickly hop over to Vivian Kirkfield’s 50 Precious Words and get your short (very short) children’s story posted for the chance at some great prizes. Do it now though as March 3 is the last day to post your entry. I have one I’m working on since I’m currently obsessed with flash fiction (see my last newsletter for more about that).
For Educators
It’s Women’s History Month. If you’re looking for an activity for your classroom, home, or library check out this project about using books to spread the word about women in STEM.
I’m slowly updating my website and the first page I worked on was a new Author Visit page. Thank you to the educators who provided testimonials! If you have any questions or want to talk about a visit please fill out the form on my website.
“It was wonderful to have Christine meet with my students and chat with them about what it's like to be a children's book author. They were excited to meet the author that wrote "Evelyn the Adventurous Entomologist", a book that they are familiar with! We really enjoyed her presentation and the students are really inspired to write their nonfiction children's books” - Kari Emerson, 7th grade ELA teacher, Miller Middle School, California
Happy writing,
Christine