This November I got to interview my critique group friend and accountability partner, Sandy Ecker. I met Sandy in the Children’s Book Mastery Coaching Program. She lives in Colorado and is the author of Penny’s Adventures: In Search of Tasty Treats.
(more…)Author: Joanna Szeto
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Author Spotlight: John Micklos Jr.
This October I interviewed John Micklos Jr. He is the author of more than 60 books for children and young adult readers. He writes everything from poetry picture books to fascinating nonfiction. I was lucky enough to learn from John when I participated in a creative coaching group through SCBWI.
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Author/Illustrator Spotlight: Stan Yan Part 2
In Part 1 of the interview with Stan Yan, we talked mostly about his work as an illustrator. But to get published, he also needed to write a great story. Great writers start by reading a lot of wonderful books. Can you guess what kind of books Stan Yan reads?
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Author/Illustrator Spotlight: Stan Yan Part 1
This month we will get to know Stan Yan, an award-winning American-born Chinese writer, illustrator, caricature artist, and instructor. He is also currently the Co-Regional Advisor of the Rocky Mountain Chapter of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators.
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The Power of Writing Mentorships
When I decided to join Girls Write Now as a mentor, I wanted to create a similar program at my elementary school. But after mentoring for two years, I have finally realized the power of writing mentorships.
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Writing 3 Vocab Stories to Improve Creativity
Teaching writing is fun and difficult, especially when you have fourth graders. Writing 3 vocab stories is the best activity for all your teaching needs.
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Strategic Planning for All Writers
Today I just finished a coaching call that focused on quarterly strategic planning. Normally I watch these recorded calls, but today was Spring Break so I could attend. I learned so much about goals and planning that could change my writing career.
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Craft Book Review: Writing Irresistible Kidlit
If you are attempting to write a middle grade or young adult novel, then this is probably the book for you. Writing Irresistible Kidlit is the ultimate guide for writing children’s books for older readers.
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Picture Book Review: Pau The Last Song of the Kauaʻi ʻōʻō
Pau The Last Song of the Kauaʻi ʻōʻō is a picture book by Tony Piedra and Mackenzie Joy. It tells the life story of the Hawaiian bird that became extinct in our lifetime.
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