Where are Picture Books now?

It should be a relief to know that Picture Books are alive and well!

I know this article is about 2 years old, but I found it while doing some research on the picture book market. Another, more recent, but still refreshing taking on the state of children's publishing can be found here. It is always encouraging to see other authors succeeding in the field. In this environment of closing imprints and freezing backlists (see the Boston Globe or Nathan Bransford's more recent update), I am bolstered to read of children's books that are being sold.

Storytime is crucial to young children's early literacy skills. I am currently reading an excellent reference book on the topic: "Much More Than the ABCs: The Early Stages of Reading and Writing" by Judith Schickedanz.

Let me know what you think.

On the hunt again...

It's been a while since I've posted on this blog. Be assured I have continued my literary efforts. After a year, I am parting ways with The View Literary Agency. JD and I have amicably split, after she recognized that she does not have enough contacts with children's book publishers to adequately represent my work. Throughout the past year, I have received some positive feedback from editors on the picture book manuscript that JD submitted. However, in the intervening time, I have composed what I feel are stronger pieces. I am currently seeking representation for these newer picture book manuscripts. I still avidly read several agent/editor blogs (see the links posted to the side), which I recommend to all those seeking a writing career. Keep checking back for more regular updates--I will try to make at least one a week. Thanks for your interest.

Opening Day

It's Day One of the blog and I feel like the owner of a new restaurant. Come, taste the fine cuisine at Le Garrigues.

Although this is the first post, I am not new to blogging, nor am I green when it comes to writing. While earning my Master's degree from James Madison University, I was awarded Best Graduate Paper at a statewide conference. Currently, I am considering an offer of agent representation (TBA) for a couple of my picture book manuscripts.

One of my goals is to create intelligent, adventurous, and engaging stories of children from a variety of backgrounds that must look within themselves to overcome everyday challenges. Kids are smart; believe me, I am around them all day. They can figure out a lot on their own. Too often parents and teachers rush in to a conflict, rather than allow the child to problem-solve on their own. I want to encourage this developing skill within preschool children, which is why I model it through my characters.

Now for a bit more on the blog, here's a list of things I will post:
--Updates on my career as an author
--Samples of my work
--Relevant publication information
--Useful industry news, links, and advice for other authors

I will not post:
--Full manuscripts
--Detailed information on my agent (other than name and link), publisher, contracts, or sales
--Criticism of others in the industry (I will leave that job to those more qualified...for example, http://anotherealm.com/prededitors/ )

Thanks for trying the fare and please come again!