Tag: Kidlit

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Kids Lit

Summer is for Experimenting!

Kids Lit

I have been working/pitching a series of four board books for the last few years on the seasonal changes in nature and the connection to God’s creative care. Amazon had comp titles on changing nature and on Creation Event but none that connected them. I have a niche!

But how do we convey those unique selling points (!) to publishers? I needed to talk their talk. How would this book play in the open market? I put ChatGPT to work.

Amazon Categories

Specifically what Amazon categories: When God Colors…Spring. Red birds, brown mud, green frogs, pink worms. Every season God reveals new colors in nature. In this multi-engaging board book, objects appear under color flaps on each page. Other Titles: Summer, Autumn, Winter.

ChatGPT

For a book like “When God Colors…Spring,” you could consider the following Amazon categories:

  1. Children’s Religious Books
  2. Christian Children’s Books
  3. Board Books
  4. Nature & the Natural World Children’s Books
  5. Early Learning Basic Concepts Books (Colors)
  6. Christian Fiction for Children
  7. Children’s Concept Books
  8. Christian Baby & Toddler Books
  9. Interactive Children’s Books
  10. Christian Board Books

This is excellent information for finding comp titles. But for people to use Amazon’s categories, I needed keywords for online descriptions, articles, ads, and blurbs.

Key Words

I asked: the best keywords for the story: When God Colors…Spring. Red birds, brown mud, green frogs, pink worms. Every season God reveals new colors in nature. In this multi-engaging board book, objects appear under color flaps on each page. Other Titles: Summer, Autumn, Winter.

ChatGPT

  1. God’s Palette
  2. Nature’s Canvas
  3. Colorful Creations
  4. Spring Surprises
  5. Flapping Colors
  6. Discovering Spring
  7. Hidden Hues
  8. Seasonal Spectacles
  9. Vibrant Springtime
  10. Exploring Nature’s Tints

I must not have been clear. Those look like titles, not search terms. Most of them missed the connection to God. Would anyone look up “Exploring Nature’s Tints”?

Discoverability

I tried again with the buzzword: discoverability terms: When God Colors…Spring. Red birds, brown mud, green frogs, pink worms. Every season God reveals new colors in nature. In this multi-engaging board book, objects appear under color flaps on each page. Other Titles: Summer, Autumn, Winter.

ChatGPT

To enhance discoverability for “When God Colors…Spring,” you could use the following terms:

  1. Christian board books
  2. Nature-inspired children’s books
  3. Interactive learning for toddlers
  4. Colorful Christian stories for kids
  5. Lift-the-flap board books
  6. Seasonal exploration for children
  7. Religious concept books for young readers
  8. God’s creation in children’s literature
  9. Early childhood Christian education
  10. Christian-themed interactive picture books

Those don’t seem kid-friendly, but I am not selling to kids but parents and teachers. I’ll try those in my pitch or cover blurb.

Testing AI Results

I tried a few of those terms and did a Google search to see if it understood me. (Or me and AI)

Christian board books – besides sellers, I found a few blogs I might contact for reviews or inclusions on lists.

Lift-the-flap board books – only sellers.

Religious concept books for young readers -that term collected mostly books for middle school.

God’s creation in children’s literature – all original creation books, 1 reviewer

Christian-themed interactive picture books – this was a winner! Several different blogs and lots of full-color pictures.

Essentially AI is useful for sweeping data searches, but there must be some human evaluation almost on a micro level. It did give me some ideas to follow up and feel more ready to send When God Creates…Spring into the world!

Multi-award-winning author Robin Currie learned story sharing sitting on the floor during more than 1000 story times but is still unpacking AI. She has sold 1.7 M copies of her 40 storybooks and writes stories to read and read again!

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Kids Lit

Advice for Just Starting Out

Kids Lit

Has this happened to you? You are introduced to someone new as a children’s author.

Response: “I have an idea for a picture book – how do I get it published?”

Oh, my where to start? Depending on where you are in your own process, you might say the market is hard to break in, that AI is a serious threat to creatives, that agents are impossible to acquire, that the publishing world is full of scams.

About 2/3 of those words will be incomprehensible to a new writer. All that is the kind of talk we share with others who have a Collection of Rejections! And miraculously – a published book!

But this hopeful writer wants a path, and so here is a 3-step plan to offer.

1 Write your story.

Ideas can’t be copyrighted or critiqued. It is the manner the idea is conveyed that matters.

Once the book is written, figure out what it is.

Is it a made-up story, a traditional story retold? Is it a story based on facts or a book of only real facts.

Would a baby or toddler listen to it? Would a preschooler like it in story time? Would an early grade school child read or explore it?

Are your characters children, animals dressed and acting like children, or animals acting like animals?

What do you want to change about your story in light of what you learned about your story?

2 Research the Market.

There are lots of books out there – how is your different?

Read at least 30 books like your story that have been published in the last five years.

Choose three authors who published books like your story and follow the blog or FB for six months. If they use terms that are new, ask or look them up.

Take a basic class that relates to your story type.

What do you want to change about your story in light of what you learned?

3 Get Feedback.

Now matter how good it sounds in your head….

Find 5 people you do not know to read your story, preferably out loud. Many online groups have manuscript exchange opportunities. Or pay for a professional critique.

What do you want to change about your story in light of what you learned?

Then and only then will your story be in a position to be submitted.

And if the wide-eyed writer asks the frequent follow up question: “How much can I expect to make the first year?”

Answer honestly: “Keep your day job.”

Multi award winning author Robin Currie holds a MLS from the University of Iowa, MDiv and DMin from LSTC, but learned story sharing by presenting over 1000 story times! She sold 1.7 M copies of her 40 storybooks and has never given up her day job.

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Kids Lit

In 25 Words or Less…

Kids Lit

“I was born as a small child…and did stuff.” My bio in nine words, but who’s counting?

One piece of information that authors sometimes falter on is the dreaded bio. We have the book synopsis and elevator pitch and one-liner, but at some point, the editor/agent/publicist/person running the panel will say, “Now tell me about yourself!”

What is too long? Too short? Too braggy? Too personal?

So we blurt out something, and, as soon as the microphone moves on, we remember the one thing we meant to say! This month we prepare for publishing and public speaking by thinking in advance about those moments before someone says, “Will you go first?”

First, consider…who wants to know? 

My answer to a group of librarians: “I have an MLS from the University of Iowa and worked in public library children’s departments for three decades. I have co-authored seven resource books for library programs and developed programs for ages 0-3 years at Glen Ellyn Public Library.”

But to other children’s authors: “I have traditionally published over 40 picture and board books in both religious and general markets. I have a monthly column on writing for children for Almost an Author. I have an agent and belong to SCBWI, several critique and writing support groups.”

And if it is preschool kids: “Head, shoulders, knees and toes!” Because they don’t care who I am as long as I brought the dinosaur book.

So when self-introducing to the group, select the parts of life that are most relevant to the listeners. 

It’s easier in print.

I don’t mind saying “Muti award-winning author” on the bio at the end of an article or on a one-sheet. It is easier in the third person, too. 

Who’s it for? 

If I am pitching to an editor in the Christian market: With more than 1.7 M copies of her books sold, multi-award-winning author Rev. Dr. Robin Currie was a public librarian before answering the call to ordained ministry. She has traditionally published more than 40 picture books, including the Baby Bible Storybook. 

But for a general market editor: With more than 1.7 M copies of her books sold, multi-award-winning author Robin Currie led Chicago area public library children’s departments, developing literacy skills for preschoolers. Robin’s most recent book, How to Dress a Dinosaur, received a Kirkus review and has won eight awards in board book categories.

How long will they read?

50-word bio

Multi-award-winning author Robin Currie led children’s departments of Midwestern public libraries. She now volunteers to teach English in developing countries. Robin has published seven resource collections of creative ideas for library story times, and more than 40 picture books.

100-word bio

Multi-award-winning author Robin Currie led children’s departments of public libraries and now volunteers to teach English in developing countries. Robin has published seven resource collections of creative ideas for library story times, and more than 40 picture books. She writes stories to read and read again!

Helpful tip:

Develop four different bios on yourself. Regrettably, unless the facts are critical to the book or speech, most people do not want to hear about the grandchildren or summer vacation.

1. 30-50 words long for print

2. 75-100 words long for print

3. list of 5 items considered primary accomplishments 

4. 3 sentences about a personal incident relevant to the group

Keep all four in your computer under BIOS so they can be whipped out as needed in print. Also, print them out and tuck them in your wallet for the next time you are called on to “Introduction yourself to the group.”

BIO: See above! Or see picture below!

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Kids Lit

Multi Award-Winning Author!

Kids Lit

There are some thrilling moments in book publication that make all the back work (sometimes YEARS of edits!) pale by comparison: cover reveal, box opening, autographing! Then the first rush is over, the book is launched, and the next big thrill is winning an award.

Award-winning books are truly authored.

Whatever we feel about Celebrity Books (where the sales value is based on the person’s platform in another arena – sports, music, acting, social media), award judging is done on the value of the text and pictures. 

Award-winning books are simply published.

They do not have to come from The Big Five publishers (or Four if someone bought someone out this week). Smaller publishers and self-published books are considered for their merit, not the publisher’s name on the spine.

Award-winning books are publisher endorsements.

Awards not only honor us as an authors but the publisher for having the faith to publish us. It also tells the publisher we are working past the launch to promote the book. Great points when pitching the next book to the same publisher.

Award-winning books are attention-getters.

It is boring on social media to promote a book after the initial launch. An award allows a second (or third or fourth!) chance to keep the title in people’s minds. A new award mentioned on Amazon or Goodreads can boost ratings. Translation: book sales! 

Award-winning books are reputation builders.

The next book proposal includes all the awards for the previous titles. This tells any publisher we are keeping the book in the public view long after the launch. With just one award we can say, “Award-winning author”! 

Award-winning books are validation.

Libraries and bookstores will take a second (or third) look at a book judges have considered worthy of an award. Awards are a way to work around the “must have a review” or “must be from a big publisher” hurdles!

Award-winning books are a bonus for older titles.

Many awards have added categories for previously published books, realizing that older books deserve recognition. An award brings the book to the attention of the publisher and public once more and can boost sales of backlists.

So what awards?

Publishers may put a book up for reviews and awards, but most of the time, it is up to the author. And, yes, there is a fee. I never pay over $75 – the usual cost is under $50. Check the award out carefully – look at the list of past winners. Check to see if there are costs to the winners beyond the entry fee. Scan other authors’ titles to see what award they received and ask them if there are any doubts. 

National Awards

This is the list of BIG awards that will come up by googling “Book Awards.” Beyond that are many awards based on subject matter, format, or writing style. STEM, SEL, disability, underrepresented authors, and topics have specific awards.

Categories of Awards 

Scroll the entire list of categories. An environmental book is better positioned to win in the “nature” category than a “general picture book.”

Conference Awards

Sometimes these are open only to attendees, but with a narrower genre focus. A Christian conference award can be a real boost! There may also be a category for unpublished writing.

State Awards 

Many awards are limited to authors from a particular state on topics of interest to that region, but they are worth checking, particularly if the sponsoring group is connected to a library or reading association.

And the winner is…

MULTI-AWARD-WINNING author (really!) Robin Currie has sold 1.7 M copies of her 40 storybooks and writes stories to read and read again. Robin is pleased to report that How to Dress a Dinosaur has only 181 words and 6 awards!

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Kids Lit

AI:Part 2 In which I get a 4-star review for a book not yet written!

Kids Lit

People seem to be taking sides on AI and feeling strongly about it. Recently we had an AI adventure in the home office.

My husband works for the local arboretum plotting and interpreting data gathered from trees – sap flow, and seasonal correlations. He loves charts. Recently he had to find a formula for interpreting certain data. He researched, found one, applied it, and got an answer. One of the other team members got a slightly different answer by using an AI program. They reviewed all the data and determined the human had the more accurate answer! Ha! Take that AI Know-it -all!

So I took another pass at AI technology, using ChatGPT. Remember my last attempt was to get a story or rhyming story of a spin on The Three Pigs. It was not a publishable success! So what if I wrote the story but let AI do the Twitter pitch and back cover synopsis, which I admit I find tedious. 

I gave AI: 

Twitter book pitch – Frank grandson of the Big Bad Wolf is tired of turnips and wants to eat grandchildren of the original Three Little Pigs

And in seconds received: 

Title: Frank the Grandson of the Big Bad Wolf

Genre: Children’s Fiction

Twitter Pitch:

Frank, the grandson of the Big Bad Wolf, is tired of his boring diet of turnips. He dreams of devouring the succulent grandchildren of the original Three Little Pigs. Join Frank on his adventure to capture the pigs and satisfy his hunger. Will the pigs outsmart Frank or will they end up in his belly?

#FranktheWolf #ThreeLittlePigs #ChildrensBooks #Adventure #HungerGames #FamilyTree #FairyTaleFridays

I suppose #HungerGames is relevant because the proposed meal is “succulent grandchildren” but… It’s a start, albeit not an inspiring one.

Clipart Library

My human-developed Twitter pitch:

No More Turnips!

Turnip burgers and turnip tacos! Frank has had it! Grandpa Wolf howls about his scorched tail, but why not risk putting some bacon on the table? There is no hot pot in the Three Pig’s fireplace but little grandpiglets wait to cure Frank’s ham hock hankering. #pbpitch

I should note I got NO teeny little hearts on mine, either!

Using the pitch AI wrote I asked for a back cover blurb: 

Title: Frank Grandwolf and the Three Little Pigs

Genre: Children’s Picture Book

Blurb:

Frank Grandwolf is tired of eating turnip egg rolls, but his dreams of devouring delicious pork chops seem impossible. Until one day, he sets his sights on the Brick House, where he believes he’ll find the succulent grandpiglets waiting for him. But to his surprise, the clever grandpiglets have set a trap for him. Will Frank Grandwolf fall for their trap, or will he learn the value of friendship and share a meal with his new companions?

This delightful picture book teaches children the importance of being kind to others and shows that sometimes, the greatest friendships can be found in the most unexpected places.

#FrankGrandwolf #ThreeLittlePigs #PictureBook #Friendship #Kindness #ChildrensBooks #FamilyTime #BedtimeStories #AnimalTales #EarlyReaders.

The hashtags were better this time, but I am not sure the point of the book (if there is one!) is kindness and friendship. It might just be a funny story!

Clipart Library

Whereas my HUMAN back cover:

Turnip burgers, turnip tacos, turnip dumplings. Ever since the Original Three Pigs and Big Bad Wolf met, both families have been strictly vegan. Now Frank the youngest wolf cub has a ham hock hankering. He drops safely down the Three Pigs’ chimney, but the grandpiglets know how to make Frank lose his taste for spareribs.

The other thing I struggle with is writing reviews! So using the back matter AI developed I asked for a review of the book that is technically NOT YET WRITTEN.

Title: Frank Grandwolf and the Three Little Pigs

Author: [Insert author name]

Genre: Children’s Picture Book

Target Age Group: 4-8 years old

Review:

“Frank Grandwolf and the Three Little Pigs” is a delightful picture book that is sure to capture the imagination of young readers. The story is beautifully told and the illustrations are charming, making it a joy to read.

The book teaches children the importance of friendship and kindness, as Frank Grandwolf learns the value of sharing a meal with his new companions. The story is also full of suspense and surprises, keeping children engaged from beginning to end.

The book’s message of friendship and cooperation is an important one for young readers, and the way it is presented in the context of a fun and exciting story is a real strength.

Overall, “Frank Grandwolf and the Three Little Pigs” is a wonderful addition to any library or classroom. It is a perfect bedtime story and is sure to become a favorite for children and parents alike.

Rating: 4/5 stars. 

4 out of 5??!! And who did the “charming illustrations”? That is the update on the AI world, and I going to work on those pigs – I want 5 stars!

Multi-award-winning author Robin Currie learned story sharing by sitting on the floor, in library story times. She has sold 1.7 M copies of her 40 storybooks and writes stories to read and read again! Robin is pleased to report that How to Dress a Dinosaur has many 5-star reviews from humans!

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Writers Chat

Writers Chat Recap for March, Part 2

Writers Chat, hosted by Jean Wise, Johnnie Alexander, and Bethany Jett, is the show where we talk about all things writing, by writers and for writers!

“Because talking about writing is more fun than actually doing it.”

Historical Romance with Janalyn Voigt

In this episode, Janalyn shares her process for writing Historical Fiction, giving tips on identifying domains of research, the benefits of on location research, the value of using original sources. Other topics such as how to balance research with story, developing plot, and much more were discussed. If you’re in need of good research ideas and tips for balancing your research with story—no matter the genre—this is the episode for you. Come check it out.

Watch the March 17th replay.

Bio

Janalyn Voigt is a multi-genre novelist and inspirational speaker with a passion for books, reading, history, photography, and travel. For more about Janalyn,, you can find her on social media or visit her website, http://janalynvoigt.com/.

KidLit Forum

In this episode, Writers Chat’s own Jan Martin and Annette Whipple are joined by René Aube to discuss writing children’s books. These three ladies are published authors of children’s books, ranging from fiction to instructional books. They share the basics of writing and publishing in fiction and nonfiction. Whether you write picture books, early readers, or YA, this episode is full of great ideas and a plethora of resources. If you write children’s books or are curious about writing for kids, stop by and watch this fun, informative, and encouraging episode of Writers Chat.

Watch the March 24th replay.

Bio

René Aube loves dreaming up drama for various critters who creep into her life. She hones in on unusual details and develops adventures for anthropomorphic characters while weaving in factual content. Her current works in progress include fiction and non-fiction picture books. Rene` is also beginning to meddle with middle grade fiction. You can follow her on social media or at https://renedianeaube.com/

Jann Martin attended Michigan State University earning a Bachelor of Science in elementary education Then Trinity Seminary and commissioned as an Associate in Ministry. In 2006 Jann received a call from God to write children’s books through the eyes of a child. She currently has seven books published with many more to come. She is also a public speaker and teacher to all ages. You can follow Jann on Facebook.

Annette Whipple writes nonfiction to inspire curiosity and wonder in children. She inspires curiosity and wonder in readers while exciting them science and history through her nonfiction books. Annette provides interactive programs and workshops to engage participants in topics like writing, science, and history. Learn more about Annette’s books and presentations at https://www.annettewhipple.com/

JOIN US!

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Participants mute their audio and video during the filming then we open up the room for anyone who wishes to participate with our guests. The “After Party” is fifteen-minutes of off-the-record sharing and conversation.

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