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.)

Contest for Kids' Writers!

Did you know the Guide to Literary Agents Blog is holding regular contests for writers of different genres? Right now the "Dear Lucky Agent" Contest is for middle grade and young adult novels. So if you've written a book-length kids' novel, this is the contest for you. The judge is Jennifer Laughran, an agent with the Andrea Brown Literary Agency! The prizes are: First place: 1) A critique of 25 pages of your work, by your agent judge. 2) A query critique from your agent judge. 3) Two free books from Writer's Digest Books. Runner-ups - second and third place: 1) A critique of 10 pages of your work, by your agent judge. 2) One free book from Writer's Digest Books. For details go to the blog, but hurry! The contest ends soon!

A Day For Writers

If you live in the Cincinnati-Dayton area, you're in luck! Greater Harvest Workshops is offering a wonderful day for writers on Saturday, February 27, from 8:30-1:30 -- and I'm not just saying that because I'm one of the presenters. Look what's planned for this jam-packed Saturday, designed to move you closer to your goal of becoming a working writer and published author:

Schedule:
8:30-9:00 - Registration
9:00-9:20 – Opening Session
9:30-10:30- Workshop #1
10:30-10:45 – Break
10:45-11:45 - Workshop #2
11:45-12:00 – Snack Time
12:00-1:00 - Workshop #3
1:00-1:20 – Closing Session

Choose one workshop from each session.

9:30-10:30: Workshop 1

Selling Short Pieces in the Christian Market – Donna J. Shepherd

Have you dreamed of writing for books like Chicken Soup for the Soul or seeing one of your devotionals published? Donna's workshop will focus on finding markets and how to submit your writing to anthologies, magazines, and ezines.

You Can Write a Novel – Teresa Slack

Writing a novel can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. In this workshop, I’ll show you how to access the skills and material you already possess to turn your story idea into a finished novel.

10:45 –11:45: Workshop 2

The Pros and Cons of Self-Publishing – Linore Rose Burkard

Many writers today are taking this route to publication. Is it something you should consider? Speaking as someone who has self-published and traditionally published, Linore can speak with authority on the topic, and will guide you through the steps to deciding if self-publishing is for you.

How to Find Your Niche As an Illustrator - Liz Ball

Liz Ball is the author/illustrator of the popular Hidden Treasures hidden picture puzzle books, 18 picture books, and is published in over 100 newspapers, magazines and publications throughout the U.S. and internationally. In her workshop, Liz will explain the steps to becoming a professional illustrator. She will also look over your artwork and give you personalized advice.

12:00 -1:00: Workshop 3

The Seven Planks of Your Platform – Donna J. Shepherd

As a speaker or writer, it is in your best interest to build your marketing platform as early as possible. Are you wondering, what is a platform? Why do I even need one? And the biggest question of all: How do I start building mine? In this workshop, Donna will share seven tips for establishing yourself as a professional speaker and/or writer and connecting with your audience.

So You Want to Write for Kids? – Diana R. Jenkins

Diana Jenkins is the author of hundreds of magazine stories, comic strips, and plays for kids. In her workshop, she will share her journey and offers tips for getting published.

The whole day -- including snacks -- costs just $29! For more information, go to Greater Harvest Workshops. Hope to see you there!

New Picture Book is Oodles of Fun!

I just got to preview a wonderful new book by Donna Shepherd. With its delightful language and charming illustrations, Poodle and Doodle is a picture book that can be read and enjoyed again and again. The story of how Angel, the "perfect" poodle, adjusts to the intrusion of Scruffy, the Labradoodle, will make both children and adults laugh. (Check out Angel's blog!) Donna Shepherd's clever rhymes bring Angel's personality to life, and Jack Foster's artwork adds to the humor. Hidden bones in many of the illustrations keep things fun for multiple readings. The story entertains while teaching good lessons about friendship and change. Great for both home and school libraries! You can get the book from Guardian Angel Publishing.