Welcome back, dear reader, to a spring edition of First Stories. The dogwoods are in bloom and every tree is leafing out – don’t you love that phrase? – which is the perfect time to welcome the author of THREE new picture books to talk about the story that inspired him to “spring” into writing… Read more »

March has roared in like a lion…but a lion carrying so much fun! Some of the best fun I’ve had in the last few months. It was a joy and honor to be invited to speak to multiple classrooms in and around my hometown for Read Across America week. The week began with the cover… Read more »

Are you ready to launch a few ladybugs? Bet you haven’t heard that question before! But today’s picture book – and the First Story behind it – is the perfect mix of science, whimsy, and heart. Perfect for Valentine’s Day! So grab your flight suits and helmets. Sit down and buckle up for an out-of-this-world… Read more »

Welcome back, dear readers! Warm wishes for a very merry holiday season. This truly is the season for warm mugs, snuggly slippers, and roaring fires. I hope that you’ll stir up a pot of coffee or hot chocolate or cider, cuddle under a blanket, and settle in for a great First Stories interview with one… Read more »

I wrote this little story for Susanna Leonard Hill’s amazing Holiday Contest. It’s the 13th year she’s been hosting this fun event – thank you Susanna! It was wonderful to play with the theme, which was a COUNTDOWN. The entries could only be 250 words, but had to appeal to kids ages 12 and under,… Read more »

Welcome back, First Stories readers! In this season of giving thanks, I’d like to say thank you to each and every one of you for spending some time with me and my stellar author guests. Today, you’re in for a super special treat, because I am delighted to be chatting with Lynne Marie, the founder… Read more »

I gave this presentation as part of the SCBWI Southern Breeze Middle Grade Intensive on Nov. 3-5, 2023 at Gulf Shores Lodge in Gulf Shores, Alabama. The setting was inspiring and the attendees engaged – overall an amazing conference! I hope you find it helpful as you continue on your writing journeys. View my charts… Read more »

Welcome back to another edition of First Stories! Today, I’m delighted to welcome Kelly Rice Schmitt, who’s delightful picture book I SHIP! (Millbrook Press) launches into the world on October 3! Kelly Rice Schmitt is a mom who writes STEAM books for kids of all ages! She loves getting small humans excited about BIG ideas…. Read more »

Welcome back, fellow readers and Kidlit fans, to another installation of First Stories, where I talk with other children’s book authors about their first stories – the ones that really pushed them to jump into the crazy, but wonderful world of traditional publishing. Whether it’s the sheer amount of work that goes into crafting children’s… Read more »

I’m excited to welcome Amanda Davis back to First Stories as we celebrate the upcoming release of her new picture book, Moonlight Memories. Amanda and I decided to modify my standard set of questions a little, since she had already answered them on her previous appearance on my blog here. Before we jump into our… Read more »