When inspiration hits

It is such a beautiful autumn day. I was sitting outside in the sun with the cat, not thinking about much in particular, when a story idea popped into my head and it just took off. I found myself writing a picture book manuscript. Good or not remains to be seen but it is a complete idea. Reads aloud well too. Looking forward to getting feedback from my assessor.

Research and creation

I have begun a spot of research so that I can write a short story. When given a subject that I have never studied and have unreliable knowledge of I knew it was time to hit the books. The added benefit of course is increased general knowledge. Writing gives us so much. For me, creating a character and placing it in a setting and making things happen, seems quite magical. There was a time when the story did not exist. And suddenly it does.

So in these early days of pondering and trying to lock in a plot, I'm looking forward to going further into this particular unknown time and place.

Picture Book finished and Sent Off

I have just completed a Picture Book manuscript that I love. It is done! It's been checked and re-checked and re-checked. So many little adjustments that seem to never go away. But now I feel right about it. So it's off into the big wide world for my little story. Good luck little fella, hope to hear back from you soon.

Buying Picture Books

I went out this afternoon and visited two local bookstores and the library. I came home with 6 books. From one store I purchased 'How to Heal a broken Wing' by Bob Graham. Also 'Last Tree in the City' by Peter Carnavas. From the library I borrowed  'The Important Things' by Peter Carnavas and 'The Music Tree' by Catriona Hoy. From the other bookshop I bought 'Kip' and 'Marley goes to School'. I just love having picture books on my shelves. They are inspirational for a writer and gorgeous to read and hold and share.

Finalising Picture Book

I sent my picture book manuscript off to an assessor who I use regularly. I really value her feedback and luckily it is an affordable service. The story came back with lots of praise and positive feedback so I feel that I'm almost there. I hope to send it off to the publisher soon along with a cover sheet telling how my story fits in with the current market. Then there are other opportunities to follow up. I always look forward to responses on manuscripts and rarely have nothing on the go. Happy writing.

Picture Book

Today I'm looking forward to spending more time on my current picture book manuscript. I may send it off to a reader and get some feedback. Sometimes I think that I've gone as far as I can to tell a particular story but then someone else's fresh eyes give great guidance. I'm guessing nobody is reading this blog so that's all I'll say for today.