It's here!

I just got my copies of The Stepping Stones Journals, and they look great! Chris Sabatino did a fantastic job on the cover! This book is a novel in journal form that's about the kids from the Stepping Stones comics. I'll post more on this later, but for now you can go to the Pauline website for information.

Follow The Dot!

Vashti grabbed a marker and gave the paper a good, strong jab. “There!”Her teacher picked up the paper and studied it carefully. “Hmmmmm.” She pushed the paper toward Vashti and quietly said, “Now sign it.”
In this scene from Peter H. Reynolds’ delightful picture book, The Dot, Vashti begins a journey. She’s convinced she can’t draw, but her art teacher’s support throughout the story teaches Vashti that she is an artist. Then Vashti goes on to support another young artist. It’s a delightful book – for adults as well as children – and it made me think about how much writers need each other’s encouragement. It’s so easy to fall into negativity – and so great to get support from crit groups, writers’ organizations, workshops, etc. Thanks to all the writing friends who’ve encouraged me!
You can find this book on Amazon as well as the equally charming Ish, also written and illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds.

New Video from Animoto

Have you heard of animoto? It's a great website that allows you to make FREE 30-second videos from your own images. You just download images in jpg or gif, write any text you want, choose from the free music, and wait a few minutes. They put it all together into a cool video! Here's a new one I just created: Diana R. Jenkins, Children's Author. (Please pass it on!) Notice how animoto coordinated the images with the music!

Me? A Writer?

That's how I feel when someone introduces me as the author who's going to speak. I'm still amazed that my work has been published. And, actually, it's hard to believe anybody wants to hear me talk about it! Last Friday I had the experience of talking to the kids at John Paul II, reading them some of my stories, and answering their questions. They were a nice bunch of kids and a good audience so I really enjoyed visiting with them. Then on Saturday I spoke at a Greater Harvest Workshop. It was an inspiring day and I got more out of it than I gave, that's for sure. And I enjoyed meeting lots of friendly and fun people! Another workshop is in the works for May. (Check the website later for information.)