GreatStorybook
Actionable Information and Creative Inspiration for Writers and Illustrators. From Baby Books to YA Novels.

Unpublished Manuscripts at Bologna Book Fair
At the Bologna Book Fair, I got to flip through the pages of an unpublished manuscript by Julia Donaldson. Here’s what I learned by looking at a story mock-up from one of the best.
Bologna Book Fair Impressions
I’ve just returned from an amazing first-time trip to the Bologna Children’s Book Fair. Here are some of the amazing and inspiring impressions of both the city and the book fair experience.
Road Testing a Story Mock-Up
Road testing my story mock-up revealed the story’s strengths and weaknesses – all of it unexpected. Here’s what I discovered and what might help you, too.
Reverse Chronology: how & why to write backwards
Reverse Chronology is the least used type of plot structure. But it’s pretty darn cool. Here’s how you can tackle this fascinating story structure to best advantage, even in a storybook.
How to Get Great Book Reviews: 5 Ways
Getting book reviews is really important in promoting your books. But how do you get them? Here are 5 solid ways to get great book reviews, even if you are self-published. Includes honest review sources.
WTHeck is this Narrative Technique Called Eucatastrophe?
The eucatastrophe is perhaps one of the most elusive narrative techniques, often confused with three other completely different writing devices. Here’s what you need to know.
Story and Real Life Merge
This is what happened to me this morning, a happy accident that made me smile because it’s proof that story and real life merge – they really do. About the strange-and-wonderful sensation of seeing a whimsical storybook come to life right in front of your eyes.
How to Write a Great Ending
Find out how to write a great ending to your story. This isn’t just about plot, it’s about feelings. What we feel is quite different from what the hero feels.
Interview with MG Novelist Shelley Tougas
MG Novelist Shelley Tougas shares with us her sources for help and her greatest sources of inspiration for her new novel, Finders Keepers. Find out about this very skilled author and get her books!
An Author Website: what it should be and DO
Words like “platform” and “author branding” get a lot of buzz. Find out what your author website should really DO for you and – HOW it’s done. (And when!)
Every week I will send you writing advice, tips and in-depth tutorials.