GreatStorybook
Actionable Information and Creative Inspiration for Writers and Illustrators. From Baby Books to YA Novels.
Rewriting the Writer: returning to writing after illness
After a long time away from GSB, I’m back. This is my story, involving 30-seconds as a spy and a dawn of realization at the poolside. Rewriting the writer is sometimes hard to do.
Deleted or Blacklisted Writers: what publishers never want to see from writers
If you’re getting a manuscript ready for a publisher’s eyes, be sure to do it right. First: what NOT to do. These are the ways writers get deleted or blacklisted.
How to Write a Chapter Book
Crafting a chapter book is harder than you might expect. Get the low-down on structure, language and pacing for a traditional chapter book and learn what it really takes to do it right.
Character Inner Thoughts: when to write them
Expressing a character’s Inner Thoughts is the exact opposite of the whole “show don’t tell” mantra and philosophy we hear from every corner. But still – we DO need those Inner Thoughts. Here’s how to do it right.
WTHeck is a Chain Story?
A chain story is my personal favorite type of predictable story structure. Here’s what it is, with some great examples.
Author Niche: a 4-step definition
Deciding your Author Niche is an important ingredient in successfully selling yourself to readers, agents and editors alike. Take these 4 steps!
WTHeck is a Familiar Sequence Book?
What exactly is a Familiar Sequence Book and why would you want to write one? Here’s the scoop on what this story form is, what it isn’t, and why they’re loved by kids and teachers alike.
The Author Business Plan: step-by-step
If you want to be a successful author, you need an author business plan. Join me in this step-by-step process.
The Stonecutter
The Stonecutter is an old folktale you might update, adapt and illustrate. This is a Chain Story, a.k.a. Circular Story, with a powerful message. It’s one of my favorites, but seriously needs an update.
The Fisherman and His Wife
The Fisherman and His Wife is an old folktale you might update, adapt and illustrate. This is a Chain Story, a.k.a. Circular Story, with a powerful message.
Every week I will send you writing advice, tips and in-depth tutorials.