Tag: publishing picture books

DECEMBER 4TH, 2024 FEATURE INTERVIEW WITH CHILDREN’S BOOK AUTHOR EMMA PEARL, CONDUCTED BY CHILDREN’S BOOK WRITER, BLOGGER, AND FORMER LIBRARIAN CHELSEA DICICCO

Posted on by Chelsea’s World of Books in Feature Interview Series, View all blog posts

In today’s feature interview, I’m talking with children’s author Emma Pearl about exciting ways of breaking into the kidlit market. Emma shares how she got her first book deal through a Twitter/X pitch event and shares tips for other creators on ways/places to go to participate and put themselves out there!

But before we jump in… here are a few things to know about feature interviews.

THE SCOOP: WHAT ARE FEATURE INTERVIEWS & WHO ARE THEY FOR?

Feature Interviews are a free resource for writers and illustrators at every stage of the publishing journey.

Every month, I collaborate with industry professionals—authors, illustrators, editors, and agents— many of whom were or currently are also educators and librarians, to discuss all things publishing.

What can these interviews offer YOU?

These interviews give readers an up-close and personal look at the world of publishing from an array of different perspectives on every side of the desk and offer insight into tips, resources, and advice on how to:

  • stay current with market trends
  • hook an agent or editor
  • find writing community & other resources
  • discover workshops, contests, and other events
  • figure out which path of publication is right for you
  • know if your agent is a good match

And more!

AND… if that’s not enough, every guest offers at least one giveaway prize—sometimes more. This means you have multiple opportunities to win prizes every month! *If you’re interested in entering the giveaway, scroll to the bottom of the interview for instructions.*

Not that we’ve shared a little about what’s in store… it’s time to jump into our interview!

INTRODUCTIONS AND EARLY BEGINNINGS

Emma, it’s such a treat to have you joining us today! I share your sentiment that all journeys to publication are unique and interesting, and yours is certainly an inspirational one. I can’t wait to dive into the story of your publication. I’d love to start our interview today back at the beginning.

What was your beginning inspiration for joining the world of kidlit? 

I’ve always loved reading and writing and have had a lifelong affinity with children’s literature. Stories can be so magical and transformative for young people – a place to escape, to explore yourself and your place in the world, to discover endless possibilities. I’m not sure there was a ‘beginning’; it’s just always been a passion of mine.

Have you always known that you wanted to be a writer, or is it something that you discovered later?

I’ve always known – as soon as I could hold a pencil, I was writing stories, stapling pieces of paper together to make books!

-Same!-

You had a pretty famous family member who also wrote for children. I’ll let you share who that mystery person is! What was that like growing up? And did their writing legacy influence you and your desire to write for kids?

Roald Dahl was my great-uncle, and I think it’s probably not a stretch to say that his legacy has had a profound influence on many people across the globe, including many children’s authors. He was a huge presence in my early childhood – a kind of magnetic, charismatic, mystical, and sometimes slightly intimidating locus of energy. Being at his house was always hugely exciting and a little scary – whether he was taking us on walks up to the woods and telling stories about the Witching Tree that grew there, showing us his giant greenhouse full of exotic and mysterious plants, letting us play in his Danny the Champion of the World caravan, or threatening to chuck all the children in the garbage! Plenty of inspiration for a young imagination.

I have to ask… do you have a favorite of one of your uncle’s books? If so, which and and why?

The Twits is dedicated to me, so that’s naturally a special book for me. But I think my favorite is Matilda – she’s just such an iconic female character. I also feel a personal connection to her, as I believe (although I can’t confirm it 100%) that Miss Trunchbull was at least partly based on one of my teachers!

-Oh my gosh... goosebumps! And yes, Matilda is absolutely brilliant. Also one of my favorites.-

(Learn more on Emma’s website!)

“Roald Dahl was my great-uncle… He was a huge presence in my early childhood – a kind of magnetic, charismatic, mystical, and sometimes slightly intimidating locus of energy.” – Emma Pearl @emmspearl

MRS Book Fair April 1979

Prior to publication, and maybe even still, what kind of work were/are you doing outside of writing, and did that somehow play a role in your journey to entering kidlit publishing?

I’ve worked in all kinds of jobs, from contemporary art to travel to professional regulation. I also worked in kidlit publishing in London for a couple of years in the late '90s, which I loved. I’m not sure these days whether work (i.e. earning a living) and writing kidlit are very closely aligned, sadly. 

Speaking of which… it’s time to jump into the when and how!
When and how did your publishing journey begin? 

Although I’d been writing stories all my life, my first ‘real’ step into the publishing world was in 2020 when I was selected as a mentee for the WriteMentor mentorship program. 

Let’s talk about those first steps as a new writer breaking into the industry. When you decided you wanted to pursue publication professionally, what were your first steps? Did you query agents and/or submit directly to editors?

I didn’t do either to start with – I was far too lacking in confidence! Before I applied for that mentorship, I had spent 4 years learning as much as I could from free resources online and practicing the craft. I also read as much as I possibly could.

Were there any writing groups or organizations that were especially instrumental in helping you in your beginning stages of writing? If so, what were they, and how did they help you?

WriteMentor was an amazing resource. I was a mentee in 2020 with a middle-grade novel, and in 2021 and 22, after I got my book deal, I was a picture book mentor for the same program. I learned as much from being a mentor as I did being a mentee, but the most valuable takeaways from all 3 years were the connections and feeling of community. I think WriteMentor’s tagline is ‘writing can be lonely, but it doesn’t need to be,’ which is so true and perfectly encapsulates what they do as an organization. If you haven’t discovered them yet, I recommend checking them out.

Can you tell us about some of the events and contests that you’ve participated in, which ones you would most recommend to other authors, and why?

There was a time when I would enter every free-to-enter contest and pitch event. It can be good for honing your craft, and obviously, it’s lovely if you get some recognition, but I think, in hindsight, it took a much bigger toll on my creativity and my mental well-being than I realized at the time. It can be very emotionally draining to be in that constant cycle of writing to a brief, submission, hope/excitement, and disappointment/rejection. Pitch events have a similar rollercoaster effect on the emotions. Although let’s face it – that’s what being a writer is all about, so it’s also very good practice! 

Pace yourself and don't feel pressured to participate in anything if you haven't the time or headspace to do it well or to handle disappointment.

One of my favorite contests is Vivian Kirkfield’s 50 Precious Words, which not only always has a ton of amazing entries and prizes but also includes a literacy initiative that gets books from an independent bookstore into schools. Everyone wins! 

As far as pitch events go, I’m honestly not sure which ones are still going, but one I used to love was Mood Pitch, where you had to post a mood board with your pitch - I’m an absolute sucker for those visual aesthetics!

Speaking of contests… let’s talk book deals and magical moments in publishing!

[Words of wisdom: Writing resource recommendations] “WriteMentor was an amazing resource. I think WriteMentor’s tagline is ‘writing can be lonely, but it doesn’t need to be,’ which is so true and perfectly encapsulates what they do as an organization.” -Emma Pearl

[Words of wisdom: Advice on writing contests + events] “Pace yourself and don’t feel pressured to participate in anything if you haven’t the time or headspace to do it well or to handle disappointment.” – Emma Pearl

[Writing contests + events] “Can be good for honing your craft, and obviously, it’s lovely if you get some recognition, but I think, in hindsight, it took a much bigger toll on my creativity and my mental well-being than I realized at the time. It can be very emotionally draining to be in that constant cycle of writing to a brief, submission, hope/excitement, and disappointment/rejection.” @emmspearl

“WriteMentor was an amazing resource. I was a mentee in 2020 with a middle-grade novel, and in 2021 and 22, after I got my book deal, I was a picture book mentor for the same program. I learned as much from being a mentor as I did being a mentee, but the most valuable takeaways from all 3 years were the connections and feeling of community.” @emmspearl

DREAM COME TRUE: MAGICAL MOMENTS IN PUBLISHING

In your application, you shared a unique experience about how you landed your first book deal. It’s one of those experiences that is a one-off and so exciting to hear about. Would you mind telling our readers about how you landed your first “big break?” I’m sure they’d love to hear about it!

Okay, I got my book deal on Twitter. There, I said it! I know it’s all gone a bit awry since the bird has flown from there, but back in the day, it was a wonderful place to connect with other writers and home to a thriving writing community. I entered every pitch event, and one of those was #PBPitch, for picture books only. I think it was held four times a year, and I did it maybe four or five times. I didn’t get any agent likes, but I received encouraging comments from other writers and enjoyed participating in the community interaction. I had zero expectations for anything else, so it was an incredible surprise when I received a like from the Page Street Kids editor on one of my pitches in October 2020. 

I love hearing experiences like this. It’s so hopeful for others. And I can only imagine how exciting this must have been for you! Could you walk us through some of the steps that took place after the Twitter event?

I sent the editor my manuscript straight away, and we went through a few rounds of revisions. By Christmas that year, I had a book deal! It was super exciting! A few minor tweaks were needed after the contract was signed, and then the publisher gave me a long list of potential illustrators and asked for my input. We ended up working with Sara Ugolotti, who did a stunning job of bringing the story to life.

You mentioned in your letter that you didn’t have an agent for your first two book deals. Was this intentional? Did you query agents after receiving your first two book deals?  Why or why not? 

I hadn’t actually started querying properly at this stage. I received some full requests from agents as a result of the WriteMentor showcase in September 2020, and I sent out a handful of queries around the same time (maybe three or four). Nothing materialized from the showcase in the end, but the pitch event happened, and I got busy (moving from the UK to New Zealand in the middle of the pandemic was a little crazy!), so querying was put on hold for a while.

So now, you do have an agent who represents your young adult work. How did that come about?

I finished writing another novel about a year later and began querying it in February 2022. This time, I was thorough and methodical (and lucky!), and I received an offer from Sera Rivers only 3 months later.

I’m curious about this. Was there a reason you sought representation for young adult but not children’s? Or did it just happen this way by chance?

To be honest, I’ve always been more focused on writing novels than picture books. It just happened that my picture book deal came out of the blue. In 2022, I queried my picture books and my novels but had far more agent interest in the novels despite already having picture books contracted. Every part of kidlit is so fiercely competitive, but I think picture books, possibly most of all.

Since you’ve had the unique experience of both having literary representation and also not having representation when handling book deals, could you share with our readers a little bit about what this process is like on both ends? 

I think the process depends very much on the publisher and on the agent – experiences can differ wildly whether you’re represented or not. I was very lucky to have a wonderful editorial experience with Kayla Tostevin at Page Street Kids, and I don’t think that being without an agent for that deal had any negative impact. My agent is also wonderful, and emotionally, it’s great to have her support during the submission process. We haven’t landed a book deal together yet, but she’s been very patient with me this year while I’ve had a bit of a hiatus for personal reasons, and she continues to believe in me and my stories. 

If someone was interested in submitting directly to an editor/publisher without having literary representation, what are some essential things they should know beforehand?

Do your research! There are plenty of publishers that accept un-agented submissions, but make sure you know who you’re submitting to (there are many resources online, but one I’ve found to be very useful is the list published by children’s author Bitsy Kemper), and that your story is a good fit with their list. Also, give yourself the best chance by not submitting until your manuscript is really ready, i.e., you have received as much feedback as you can handle, ideally from a supportive critique group, and taken it on board as far as it resonates. Polish that story until it shines!

Are there any recommendations or tips you have for writers who are on the fence about which way to go- to be agented or not to be agented? What are some of the pros/cons or help/freedoms of each?

It’s a very personal decision, so I hesitate to advise on this – what’s right for one person is definitely not right for all, and there is so much variability in publishing. I think most writers starting out would give anything to be published, with or without an agent. It’s wonderful to have an agent supporting and believing in you and also protecting your interests on the contractual side of things, but the traditional publishing route is not without its challenges, and there are certainly opportunities for un-agented writers, too. I would say, whichever path you find yourself on (it’s not always a choice!), give yourself grace and look after your mental health.

ADVICE FOR AUTHORS on traditional publishing without an agent: Do your research! There are plenty of publishers that accept unagented submissions, but make sure you know who you’re submitting to & give yourself the best chance by not submitting until your manuscript is ready!

[Words of wisdom: Choosing routes to publishing:] “What’s right for one person is definitely not right for all, and there is so much variability in publishing… traditional publishing is not without its challenges, and there are certainly opportunities for un-agented writers, too. …Whichever path you find yourself on… give yourself grace and look after your mental health.” -Emma Pearl

HURDLES & HIGHLIGHTS

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced on your publishing journey, and how have you been able to overcome them?

Rejection is the biggest challenge, and I believe that’s the case for all writers, no matter where they are in their publishing journey. It’s constant, relentless, and brutal. I think having an agent helps with this because a) they act as a buffer so the rejections aren’t flying directly into your inbox (I know all agents work differently, but mine has a spreadsheet that I can look at when I choose to), and b) they are a great source of moral support and continue to believe in you no matter how many rejections you rack up!

For creators who may be facing similar struggles, what words of encouragement would you like to share?

Self-care is so important. Remind yourself often that signing with an agent or directly with an editor is a matter of good luck and serendipity as much as anything else, and try not to measure your progress or your self-worth by things that are outside of your control. Find cushions (e.g. collect all the uplifting comments you’ve received about your writing and keep them where you can see them; create a reward system for yourself for achieving your word count goals, submissions, and rejections) and barriers (e.g., create a separate inbox for querying and check it once a week or only when you feel strong) that work for you. Be kind to yourself!

-Such great advice!-

What have been some of the most rewarding, fulfilling, and happy moments of your publishing career so far?

Right now, I’m having an amazing experience – the British International School in Washington, DC, is about to put on a stage performance of Mending the Moon! It’s truly an author's dream come true for me and such a huge honor. Sadly, I won’t be able to see it in person, but I’m waiting with bated breath to see the recording of the performance. This happy event has also brought about another opportunity, as the student who’s playing the main character, Luna, is a budding young writer, and I’m delighted to be helping her hone her skills in a kind of unofficial mini-mentorship. These are honestly the kind of interactions that make being a children’s writer so incredible.

[Words of wisdom: Challenges in publishing + how to overcome them] “Rejection is the biggest challenge, and I believe that’s the case for all writers, no matter where they are in their publishing journey. It’s constant, relentless, and brutal. Self-care is so important. …Try not to measure your progress or your self-worth by things that are outside of your control. … Collect all the uplifting comments you’ve received about your writing and keep them where you can see them… Create a reward system for yourself for achieving your goals… Be kind to yourself!”

WORDS OF WISDOM

If you could share a piece of advice with readers today, publishing or otherwise, what would it be?

The world is a difficult place at the moment and it’s easy to feel powerless, insignificant, overwhelmed and despairing. Focus on the present – what can you do now? What is within your control? All any of us can do is our best, but we can do that in everything we do, even the boring, menial tasks. And be kind – to others, to the planet, and most importantly, to yourself!

BOOKS!

Okay, it’s time for the books. Tell us about your work! What are your books about? What was their inspiration? All the fun details!

What do you hope your readers will gain from your stories?
I hope that readers of all ages will feel a sense of joy and wonder at the magic of nature and maybe feel inspired to follow Luna’s example – not to feel helpless and overwhelmed at the scale of the problems that need fixing, but to just do whatever is within your power to do, however small it may be. On a more personal level, I think it’s a story that parents and grandparents will enjoy reading with their children, and it’s a joy to me to hear when people simply love the story – and the beautiful illustrations, of course.

Have you been able to host any author events either in-person or virtually? If so, where? And what kind of event? We’d love to hear all about it! Pictures are great, too, if you have them!

I’ve done a few library and bookshop events and some school visits. But living in New Zealand makes it all quite difficult. I’ve participated in a couple of virtual panels hosted by the amazing Books of Wonder in NY (Mending the Moon available here and Saving the Sun available here ), which were great fun. But I guess the funniest story was the bookshop event where no one turned up, and my post about putting on a brave face but feeling crushed went viral!
In this Feature Interview, Children's author Emma Pearl shares exciting ways to break into the kidlit market. Emma discusses how she got her first book deal through a Twitter/X pitch event + offers tips for other writers! Don't forget to COMMENT on the blog post to be entered into the GIVEAWAY POOL! Deadline to enter: 11:59 PM CST December 31st, 2024.
What kind of responses have you had from readers, big and small?

I’ve had some amazing responses. The stories resonate particularly with grandparents as they feature a grandparent relationship, but have also been popular with teachers, as they are full of great learning points. But my favorite responses are when kids themselves pluck up the courage to tell me in person how much they loved the books. That really means the world.
 
Thank you so much for joining us on Chelsea’s World of Books literary blog. We love getting to know our writing friends better!

And now… 
It’s time for a GIVEAWAY!

GIVEAWAY:

For the month of December, Emma Pearl will be offering 2 prizes to 2 winners. (ONE prize per winner.)

PRIZES: One copy of Mending the Moon and one copy of Saving the Sun

HOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

  • Leave a comment on this post!
  • And if you haven’t already, like this post and subscribe to the blog and/or newsletter!

That’s it!

Want extra entries? Share and tag on X @chellysbooks or Instagram @chelseasworldofbooks, and I’ll add your additional entry to the giveaway pool.

DEADLINE TO ENTER: December 31st, 2024, 11:59 PM CST

FAQ:

What if I was already subscribed to the blog? Does that mean I won’t qualify for the Prize Giveaway? Not at all! If you subscribed before this month, all you’ll need to do is LIKE this Feature Interview and leave your COMMENT below this post within the deadline (the current month/year entry was posted).

AUTHOR + HOST BOOK LINKS AND IMAGES

PURCHASE ADHD and Me 

PURCHASE Saving the Sun 

PURCHASE Mending the Moon

EMMA PEARL AUTHOR BIO + CONNECT:

My debut picture book, Mending the Moon, in 2022, followed by Saving the Sun in 2023 (both illustrated by Sara Ugolotti and published by Page Street Kids). Originally from the UK, I live in New Zealand and write fiction for young people of all ages, from picture books to young adults. I am represented by Sera Rivers at Speilburg Literary.

emmapearlauthor.com Twitter: @emmspearl Instagram: @emmspearl Bluesky: emmspearl.bsky.social www.emmapearlauthor.com

A peek at Emma’s adorable and informative ‘Tell me why you think you’d be a good fit to be featured?’ answer for the 2024 Feature Interview application: “All journeys to publication are unique and interesting – my book deal came from a Twitter pitch event (#PBPitch), and I think those kind of one-in-a-million stories are always inspiring. I was un-agented for both book contracts and signed with my agent later for a YA novel. Also, Roald Dahl was my great uncle and dedicated The Twits to me, so that’s always a good conversation starter, too!“

Did you enjoy this interview?

Thank the author & host by purchasing/reviewing a copy of one of their books or by requesting it be purchased at your local library! Using the sponsored links below supports this blog. Looking for custom writer, librarian, or book-lover-themed swag and/or accessories? Visit my Zazzle store! Want to see a curated list of my personal favorite books and recommendations? Visit my bookshop page! Want to browse favorite writing accessories, books by genre, and cozy reading must-haves? Visit my Amazon Storefront!

Looking for a specific topic? Browse the list below to find a link to information on one of these topics:

APRIL 3RD, 2024, FEATURE INTERVIEW WITH CHILDREN’S BOOK AUTHOR JENNIFER RAUDENBUSH, CONDUCTED BY KIDLIT WRITER, BLOGGER & LIBRARIAN CHELSEA DICICCO

Posted on by Chelsea’s World of Books in Feature Interview Series, View all blog posts

It’s officially April! Summer is just around the corner. Which means the library is buzzing with activity… and so is the kidlit world. Today, it’s my pleasure to introduce you to our first Feature Interview guest of the month, Jennifer Raudenbush. Jennifer’s debut picture book, IN THE PALM OF MY HAND, was launched in March of 2023. If you don’t already have a copy, be sure to enter the giveaway at the bottom of the interview!

Before I jump into our interview, though- if this is your first time visiting my blog or the feature interview segments, welcome! I’m glad you’re here, and I hope you’ll visit again. To give you an idea of what’s in store, here’s a brief overview of what feature interviews are all about and why they’re so valuable.

WHAT ARE FEATURE INTERVIEWS AND WHY ARE THEY SO GREAT?

In a nutshell, here’s what a “feature interview” is. Every month, I sit down with literary professionals –authors, illustrators, editors, and agents– at all stages of their careers- from newly debuting to well-established, seasoned best sellers- and we discuss all things kidlit publishing. (Many of my guests are also former or current educators and librarians!)

These interviews are a great resource for kidlit writers and illustrators no matter where they are in their journey. Not only do they offer current information on market trends, but they also give readers an up close & personal look at the world of publishing from a diverse collection of creators and perspectives.

Here’s a list of just a few of the helpful things we discuss:

  • Where to find both FREE and PAID for writing memberships, craft workshops, contests, and other resources
  • How to query agents and editors and what they’re looking for
  • Where to find kidlit community and support from other writers or illustrators
  • Diversity, empathy, and kindness in kidlit and why it matters
  • How to improve your skills and set goals
  • Writing across genres
  • How to deal with setbacks/disappointments and WAITING
  • Helpful tips and suggestions for aspiring authors and illustrators
  • Pros and cons of small publishers, hybrid (or indie) publishing, and being agented vs. unagented
  • What to do after you sign with your first agent – and/or make your first book deal
  • How to promote your books as a debuting author or illustrator
  • Behind the scenes of hosting author events- library/school visits
  • How to get your books into bookstores & schools
  • And of course- during each feature interview segment- we share new publishing deals & host giveaway prizes for our readers!!! ** Giveaway PRIZES and instructions on HOW to enter are listed at the bottom of each interview**

Not that we’ve shared a little about what’s in store… it’s time to jump into our interview!

WHERE YOU’RE AT AND WHERE YOU’VE BEEN…

Jennifer, it’s such a treat to have on Chelsea’s World of Books today. Thank you for joining us. One of the coolest parts of looking over my applicants last year in preparation for the 2024 lineup was seeing geographically where all of my entries were coming from. So, let’s start with that. Where are you currently living- and if it’s different from where you’re originally from, where was that?

Hi, Chelsea. Thanks so much for having me today! I was born, raised, and still live in beautiful eastern Pennsylvania. I love nature, and this area offers amazing views and hikes.

How long have you been writing? Have you been writing since you were a kid, or did your love for writing spark later in life? 

I was always a big reader and learned to read before kindergarten. When I was a kid, I created a lot of cards and some stories, but mainly I became interested in writing in middle school and high school. I was a co-editor of both my high school newspaper and yearbook. I later majored in English Literature at Sweet Briar College in Virginia. While in college, I made my first picture book dummy, even though I truly had no idea how to write a picture book. It was the seed of my writing dream.

When did you first know you wanted to pursue publishing as a career? How old were you?

A well-meaning family member talked me out of becoming a writer (due to the income), so I became a speech-language pathologist specializing in pediatrics at a local hospital. But, like I said, I was always interested in reading and writing.

Was there anyone/anything influential that impacted your choice to pursue publication… or maybe spurred your love of literacy/writing?

I had two wonderful English teachers in high school, Mrs. Karpulk and Miss Beatty, who cemented that love of literacy deep in my bones. Both encouraged my writing, and I owe a debt of gratitude to them for pointing out that writing was a great strength of mine.

Are you the only writer in your family/friend group- or are there more writers in your midst?

I had been the only writer in my family. However, two years ago, my talented artist sister, Amy Kristen Moore, began working toward becoming an author-illustrator. Due to critique groups, I now have many writer friends! And honestly, I spend so much time with them, they begin to feel like family.

When – and how- did your path to publication truly begin? 

In a 2014 seminary class, we did an exercise in which we had to write our own obituaries. It wasn’t as morbid as it sounds! I had to fill in the blank, “The thing I most regret never having accomplished is ___.” Right away, I knew the answer was not having published a children’s book. 

I researched writing children’s books and found SCBWI. I joined an online eastern PA SCBWI critique group in the fall of 2015 and began writing (not great) picture book manuscripts. The group fizzled out, but one of the members, Becky Scharnhorst (who has now published several books!) and I continued on. We decided to meet in person at the Highlights Foundation workshop Picture Books & All That Jazz, led by Leslie Helakoskie and Darcy Pattison, in June 2016. While there, we formed a new critique group with three other writers: Rose Cappelli, Jen Fier Jasinski, and Karen LaSalvia. We call ourselves The Highlighters, and we’re still going strong!

I noticed in your bio that you’ve also done publishing in children’s magazines as well as some poetry anthologies. That’s so cool! Can you tell our readers a little more about that writing journey and how you were able to get your footing there?

I read poetry almost every morning, and I consider myself a poet. I’ve always enjoyed reading poetry, and I started writing it just for myself in graduate school. Eventually, I took Renee LaTulippe’s Lyrical Language Lab class. After that, I researched children’s magazines and submitted some poems. It’s similar to the process of querying. You see what topic and/or type of poetry a magazine, journal, or anthology wants and submit something you think might fit. 

I’m not 100% about this, but I’ve heard it rumored that agents generally shy away from things like magazines and anthologies because they’re typically smaller deals, which equals less money on their end. So, for your published magazine stories and anthologies, was that something you did on your own before getting literary representation, or is that something your agent was able to help you with? 

Yes, I think you are correct. At least, it was correct for my previous agent. She added a line in my contract that I was in charge of any poetry submissions/publications. 

Do you have any suggestions for writers or illustrators who may be interested in publishing for magazines, writing poetry for kids, or participating in anthologies? Any good places to go or other tips on learning the writing craft that you recommend?

First, I would encourage people interested in poetry to read a lot of it. Then, practice writing it. In addition to the Lyrical Language Lab, the Highlights Foundation, and other places that offer classes or workshops on poetry. I haven’t taken it yet, but Sylvia Vardell and Janet Wong offer some workshops on poetry and anthologies. Occasionally, I’ll do an online search on “poetry calls for submission” to see if I have anything in which one of these publications might be interested.

“I had two wonderful English teachers in high school, Mrs. Karpulk and Miss Beatty, who cemented that love of literacy deep in my bones. Both encouraged my writing, and I owe a debt of gratitude to them for pointing out that writing was a great strength of mine.“

“I would encourage people interested in poetry to read a lot of it. Then, practice writing it. In addition to the Lyrical Language Lab, the Highlights Foundation and other places offer classes or workshops on poetry.“

EARLY STAGES: HIGHS AND LOWS AND CONQUERING MOUNTAINS

Everyone says it- and there’s a reason for it: PUBLISHING IS A JOURNEY. And it’s not for the faint of heart. It requires grit. Tenacity. Perseverance. Passion. And true determination. 

Don’t get me wrong… kidlit is a FANTASTIC place. In fact, it’s my favorite place! It’s filled with so much beauty. But, with the highs come the lows, and taking the waves with grace and patience is an acquired skill. A skill that has to be learned and continually put into practice. So, let’s talk about that.

Why would you say patience is a required skill in publishing? And was this something easy for you to put into practice?

Patience. Right. When my teenage son was a toddler, I prayed for patience. I soon learned to stop doing that because it seemed God was giving me lots of opportunities in which to practice it! Unfortunately, publishing abounds with opportunities for which patience is required. I found I needed an abundance of patience at every stage: writing, revising, receiving critiques, querying, submitting to editors, publishing. I wouldn’t say it was or is ever easy for me, but I have no control over making anything move faster, so I have learned to accept it, even though I don’t like it.

Speaking of patience… can you share a little bit about the early stages of your publishing journey – beginning with the query trenches? (Trust me- they’re called “trenches” for a reason). And for some readers who may be unfamiliar with what the query “trenches” are, can you explain briefly what that expression means- and any words or wisdom you have on how to successfully navigate this tough terrain?

I’m certainly quite familiar with the query trenches—that painful place of spending the amount of time you’d put into a part-time job to research and send your book babies to agents, then wait (often months, even over a year, in some cases) to be told mostly no or to hear nothing back at all. It’s difficult. It’s arduous. It hurts. I’m back in the query trenches right now. More on that later.

Do you recall the first rejection you received? And what was your thought process?

I don’t remember the first rejection specifically, but I do remember feeling a bit like a real writer because I knew writers received a lot of rejections.

What made you continue going and want to try again?

Well, if you want something bad enough, you’re going to get back up on that horse and try again, right? As much as it hurts, if you’re a writer and you want to get published, you have to try, try again. If it’s too tough on your mental health, you may take a break for a while. But eventually, if that’s your dream, you’re going to have to try again.

Rome wasn’t built in a day… and books aren’t published in one either. It’s a long process. People who don’t work in publishing often have little clue as to just how much goes into ONE book deal and how much TIME goes into it as well- especially in the kidlit arena, where you’re also dealing with illustrations and art directors and all that fun stuff. The time can be challenging- even for authors who have been published and at this for years. Can you share any tips on what helps you pass the time?

My biggest tips are to continue reading, creating, and writing new/other works. Like many people, I fall into the constant email-checking trap. But that’s not going to help. It’s a much better strategy to do your best to forget about the thing you’re waiting on and get lost in another project.

Speaking of time… it takes time to climb a mountain. And publishing is, without question, a big mountain to climb. As much as we love hearing the successes- and we really do- and celebrating those positives with our fellow writing community, sometimes only hearing the good stuff can be disheartening to those who might wonder- “is it only me who’s struggling?” Is it easy for everyone else?” So, often in my interviews, I like to share both sides of the story. Because hearing the happy stuff can be just as important as hearing the hard stuff. What challenges have you faced in your writing career, and how were you able to overcome them?

I’ll talk more about a major challenge below. Suffice it to say, I felt I was moving backwards rather than forwards in my author journey. The way I’m overcoming it is to continue to write and create stories: poems, picture books, and middle-grade novels.

Now that we’ve conquered the mountain… I’d love to hear about the view from the top. It’s time for celebration!

“Publishing abounds with opportunities for which patience is required. I found I needed an abundance of patience at every stage: writing, revising, receiving critiques, querying, submitting to editors, publishing. I wouldn’t say it was or is ever easy for me, but I have no control over making anything move faster, so I have learned to accept it, even though I don’t like it.“

“As much as it hurts, if you’re a writer and you want to get published, you have to try, try again. If it’s too tough on your mental health, you may take a break for a while. But eventually, if that’s your dream, you’re going to have to try again.“

“My biggest tips are to continue reading, creating, and writing new/other works. Like many people, I fall into the constant email-checking trap. But that’s not going to help. It’s a much better strategy to do your best to forget about the thing you’re waiting on and get lost in another project.“

CELEBRATING THE VIEW: POSITIVES IN PUBLISHING

When did you sign with your first agent, and who did you sign with? (Agent/agency?)

I signed with my first agent in November of 2020. Unfortunately, I left her last May, so I’d rather not share those details.

Can you tell us how it all happened? Was it through regular querying? A contest? A special conference or query opportunity link? Etc.

I had done an Inked Voices picture book workshop with this agent. She really liked my story and messaged me to query her with it. I wasn’t sold on the changes she wanted, so I took a year before making them and querying her. 

What was your agent call like, and when did you know that they were the right agent for you? Explain.
She said many flattering things about my writing. We discussed how she communicates and the ins and outs of the contract.

Finding an agent can be difficult. And having any offer can be tempting. But – is it the right offer? Can you tell us, in your own words, why having the “right” agent is so important? And in your opinion, what makes the “right agent” “right for you?”

Oh, my, Chelsea, you are so right! In my opinion, it’s quite difficult to tell if you are the right match for an agent based on your research of that person or from the call. You often truly won’t know until you begin working together. And sometimes, unfortunately, the relationship doesn’t work out. In my case, it didn’t work out. 

Knowing how difficult it is to get an agent, I was afraid to leave. It was an extremely difficult decision, but it was the one I needed to make.

Okay- now you have your agent. It’s time to enter the submission period. What was that process like?

I signed with my agent in early November 2020. We went out on submission with IN THE PALM OF MY HAND mid-January of 2020, and heard that one of the six editors she sent it to was taking it to her team. Mid-April, Running Press Kids made an offer, and I was through-the-moon excited!

About how many manuscripts did your agent send out on sub once you signed, and to roughly how many publishing houses/editors? And what was the timeframe like?

I had an options clause, so we waited a year to send a second book to my publisher. My editor loved it, but she said they had to wait until they saw the sales numbers on pre-orders for IN THE PALM OF MY HAND. At that point, we sent a different, rhyming manuscript on submission. We received some great feedback but no takers. I was also learning to write middle-grade novels. My agent had her new assistant read my (third) middle-grade manuscript. I revised per her notes, and we sent that on submission to approximately nine editors. One of those was interested but had something too similar. So, in the 2 ½ years I was with my agent, she sent my options clause picture book to my editor and one picture and one middle grade out on submission. It’s a tough business.
 
By the way, I’m currently revising my fifth middle-grade novel. It’s contemporary with a twist of magic.

Who was the first publishing house/editor who you made your first book deal with?
As I mentioned, it was Running Press Kids (local to me in Philadelphia). My editor was Allison Cohen. She was truly magnificent to work with and extremely kind.

Okay… now, you have a bite! It’s your FIRST book deal. Walk us through the details… Tell us all the feels! 

The team at Running Press Kids were all wonderful, including my publicist Becca Matheson. They treated me with respect and care. If I ever had a question, they were quick to respond.

Your debut, IN THE PALM OF MY HAND, came out in March 2023. We’d love to hear all about it! Can you give us a brief description of the story for readers who haven’t yet read it?

I’d love to! The blurb is: "On an ambling walk, a child discovers they hold the promise of larger worlds—forests and meadows—in the palm of their hand. An acorn becomes a tree within a woodland wonderland. A grain of sand becomes a sandcastle in a kingdom of imagination. By exploring nature’s tiniest details, they learn even small things, including them, contain infinite potential."

It received wonderful reviews from Kirkus Reviews and School Library Journal! Isabella Conti from Milan, Italy, is the illustrator. Her paintings are simply magical . 

What was the inspiration behind writing this, and what do you hope to impart to your readers?

Besides being a nature lover, I also love poetry. The book was inspired by the opening lines of William Blake’s poem “Auguries of Innocence”: 
To see a World in a Grain of Sand 
And a Heaven in a Wild Flower 
Hold Infinity in the palm of your hand 
And Eternity in an hour. 

I imagined how I might interpret this concept for a child. The story starts simply with an acorn in the palm of a child’s hand and builds into a forest and wider concepts of connectivity. Over time, a vast forest may spring from a single acorn. By extension, the child realizes the universe of possibilities growing inside him. This self-esteem boost provides a natural entryway into discussions about children’s passions and dreams. It gives them a chance to reflect on how they can reach for the stars and accomplish their hearts’ desires. I also hope readers notice the connectivity of the natural world.

Speaking of which… how has your story been received since your launch last year? 

Everyone who reads it seems to really like it. I’m grateful that Running Press Kids published such a beautiful book. 

Have there been any particularly exciting/memorable moments? 

I had my launch party at my local library. It was a blast and a much-needed celebration after so many long years of struggle. People have privately sent me pictures of their kids holding the book, and these photos have meant a lot to me. I’ve done book festivals, a librarian conference, a teacher and reading specialist conference, library events, school visits (virtual and in-person), book store events and signings, and recently my first Family Literacy Night. My favorite part of these is seeing children enjoy the book I’ve had a hand in creating. 

What has your favorite part of the publishing process been? Explain.

My favorite part of the publishing process has been finally getting to hold my published book. It was a surreal moment. But I don’t take it for granted. Every time I talk about IN THE PALM OF MY HAND, I feel a little thrill.

LAST WORDS

If you had to sum up publishing wisdom in just a few last words… what would you tell others who are pursuing publication?

Don’t give up!

Can you tell us three random things about you that not everyone knows? If you want, they can be two truths and a lie… but you’ll have to give us the answer to which one is the lie. 

I attended Space Camp before my senior year of high school. I was a United Methodist pastor. I’m completely in love with my Westie pup, Mazy. These are all true . 

Thank you so much for having me on your blog, Chelsea. I truly appreciate it!

It was my pleasure! Thank you so much for taking the time out of your schedule to be here with us today and share so much of your heart with us. Sharing this stuff can be vulnerable and we certainly appreciate your honest and kind words. And we are so happy for you and your story, IN THE PALM OF MY HAND. Speaking of which… it's now time for the GIVEAWAY!

Jennifer is offering the following giveaway prize: a signed copy of her debut picture book, IN THE PALM OF MY HAND.

HOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

  1. Subscribe to the blog
  2. Like this blog post
  3. Comment below, letting me know you’ve done BOTH. (Please note: If the guest is offering more than one prize, please specify which prize you’d like in your comment.)

Deadline to enter: April 30th, 2024, 11:59 PM CST

And that’s it!

FAQ:

What if I was already subscribed to the blog? Does that mean I won’t qualify for the Prize Giveaway? Not at all! If you subscribed before this month, all you’ll need to do is LIKE this Feature Interview and leave your COMMENT below this post within the deadline (the current month/year entry was posted).

Did you enjoy this interview? Thank the author & host by purchasing a copy of one of their books or by requesting it be purchased at your local library! Using the sponsored links below supports this blog.

Already own a copy? Consider leaving a brief review on Amazon, Goodreads, or Barnes & Noble.

Purchase IN THE PALM OF MY HAND

Purchase ADHD AND ME

Jennifer Raudenbush feels most alive when she’s creating stories, especially picture books, poetry, and middle-grade novels. Jen lives with her husband and teenage son in eastern Pennsylvania, where its natural beauty provides endless inspiration. She leads weekly write-ins as a volunteer with Inked Voices and biweekly write-ins with the eastern PA SCBWI. She has been published in Cricket and Little Thoughts Press children’s magazines, the 10.10 Poetry Anthology and Two Truths and a Fib Poetry Anthology. IN THE PALM OF MY HAND, illustrated by Isabella Conti, Running Press Kids (Hachette), is Jen’s first picture book. It was released on March 14, 2023.

Website: www.jenraudenbush.com Twitter: @jenraudenbush Instagram: @jenraudenbush1

JANUARY 17TH, 2024, FEATURE INTERVIEW WITH CHILDREN’S BOOK AUTHOR AND LIBRARIAN ELAINE M. ALEXANDER, CONDUCTED BY KIDLIT WRITER, BLOGGER & LIBRARIAN CHELSEA DICICCO

Posted on by Chelsea’s World of Books in Feature Interview Series, View all blog posts

Hello again, and welcome back to the second Feature Interview of January 2024 on Chelsea’s World of Books Blog. Isn’t it nice to chat more than once a month? In line with our educational aquatic theme for the month, I’m talking with guest children’s book author and librarian Elaine M. Alexander. Elaine is the author of another splish-splashy ocean adventure entitled Anglerfish: The Seadevil of the Deep.

But before we get into the interview… just in case it’s your first time here, let me tell you a little about what makes segments special.

WHAT’S SO GREAT ABOUT FEATURE INTERVIEWS?

Feature Interviews are an INVALUABLE resource for kidlit writers and illustrators at every stage of their publishing journey. Not only are they a great way to stay current on market trends and learn more about the industry’s ins and outs, but they also give readers an up close & personal look at the world of publication from the perspectives of a diverse collection of creators.

Every month, I sit down with members of the writing community (authors, illustrators, editors, and agents), and we discuss all things kidlit publishing.

Here are a few examples of topics:

  • Writing workshops and resources
  • Diversity in literature and why it matters
  • Where to find support and community
  • How to improve writing craft and set goals
  • How to deal with setbacks/disappointments and WAITING
  • Helpful tips and suggestions for aspiring authors and illustrators
  • Querying agents, contract negotiations, book deals, and time frames
  • And of course- NEW BOOKS!

So, now that you know what to expect… let’s dive into our interview!

Elaine M. Alexander Bio

As an author and a librarian, books play a big role in my life! Anglerfish: The Seadevil of the Deep is my first nonfiction picture book. It has received both an SCBWI Barbara Karlin Grant and a Katherine Paterson Prize and was a Gold Medalist for the Bank Street College’s Cook Prize.

I’m pleased to share that I’ll have a second fishy tale coming out in 2025 featuring the giant cuttlefish, to be followed by one on fireflies in 2026! The shy giant Pacific octopus will make an appearance in a future book, too!

A fan of dark mysteries and the natural world, I am fascinated by all things extraordinary and unique. I write stories for all ages. I have one published teen novel, Death at Deacon Pond, and two historical novels that I am hoping to find a publisher home.

Currently the Assistant Director/Children’s Librarian at Deep River Public Library, I love sharing the joy of reading to the community I serve. I’ve been known to dress up in character for storytime and I have an impressive collection of costumes and props, from superhero to Mrs. Claus. If you are interested in a specialized storytime, contact me for more details.

THE BEGINNING OF IT ALL

Elaine, I’m so excited to have you on the blog today! I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed Anglerfish: The Seadevil of the Deep. Being a big nerd for science and animals- and of course, a lover of the ocean, it’s no surprise that I was hooked the moment I saw this one. And, I might add, it was released at the perfect time for our Summer Reading Theme in the library for 2022: Oceans of Possibilities. 
But BEFORE we delve too deeply into the underwater world of your stories… let’s go back a little to what began your journey. How did you arrive here in the lovely, exciting world of children’s publishing?

I had encouragement from others! First, I took an advanced class with the Institute for Children’s Literature and wrote a novel. Second, when I was completing my undergraduate degree, I took a writing class with Dr. Lisa Fraustino, who is also an accomplished children’s writer. It was in her class that the first draft of Anglerfish appeared.

Have you always been a reader? 

Yes. In fact, I was the only kid in my first-grade class who asked the teacher if I could take on more homework to learn to read faster. How’s that for motivation? I knew that reading was the key to unlocking a secret world that I wanted to be a part of. 

Have you always enjoyed writing stories?

I credit my fourth-grade teacher, Mrs. Dempsey, for sparking my interest. She had the entire class writing stories and different forms of poetry all year long and even “published” the best of the lot. I still have my mimeograph copy. (Yes, mimeograph. I’m that old)!

I’m sure being a librarian has played a part in your love of reading and writing- and vice versa, I’m sure your love of reading and writing played a role in you ending up working in a library. Can you tell us, from your perspective, what it’s like working in a library and being a children’s book author?

It’s certainly fun when patrons come in to get my book and realize that I’m the author! When Anglerfish was nominated for the Cook Prize, the Deep River Elementary School media specialist, Karen Macione, was so excited that she immediately made sure that the students participated in voting. It was wonderful to get that kind of support and enthusiasm! I’ve also found that I’m a resource for other writers who reach out to me for help. 

What are some of the benefits of being both a children’s librarian and a children’s book author? In what ways do these two career paths intersect? Do they help one another?

One of the best benefits of my dual careers is that I get very familiar with trends in the marketplace. As a librarian, I curate the collection for all stages of youth. I can see what books are popular with our user community and identify what books are needed based on the way our collection is used. It is also invaluable to be able to get research materials for new projects through the library!

Have you always known that you wanted to work in a library? Have you always known that you wanted to be a children’s book author?

No, but I should have! I was an AV aide for the library in elementary school. I used to ride my bike to the public library and the bookstore and spend hours there. I thought I was destined to be a teacher. The universe chose differently. 

I’ve known for a long time that I wanted to write. I started to lean toward children’s writing in my twenties. I think we all have an appreciation for the immediacy of a child’s experiences and the way that books help explain and share that worldview. It’s truly a special thing that gets harder to hold onto as an adult, but ironically something we all long to keep reaching for. 

Which came first, and how?

Writing came first. Librarianship was something I kind of stumbled into. I was working as a local reporter, and I would visit the libraries in our readership area to cover local events. I met Susan Rooney, a children’s librarian, and we started talking, comparing our career notes. She happily purchased my teen novel for the library. When a job opening came up at that library, I jumped on it, even though it was an entry level job. But fate is a funny thing. Although I have worked at different libraries during my tenure in Library Land (as I like to call it), I am currently working for that same librarian, Susan Rooney, at the Deep River Library. It’s no coincidence that she’s also included in my dedication for Anglerfish. She encouraged me and my writing long ago, and I never forgot that. 

I love learning little tidbits like this! How very cool to be working with your early-on fan and cheerleader.
What was the final spark that led you into publishing, and how did it begin?

The Rutgers University Council on Children’s Literature conference was a big catalyst to my latest publication. If you’ve never been to RUCCL, it’s a unique conference. You need to apply with a writing sample in order to attend. You are matched with a mentor based on your writing sample, and you are allowed to submit to other editors and agents. Initially, I was disappointed because my mentor never responded after the conference. But, I ended up sending Anglerfish to an editor on the list who did me a great kindness – she passed my book onto another editor at Candlewick who loved it. When all the pieces come into place, and an editor loves your book – that’s an amazing thing.

BEHIND THE SCENES: FIRST DRAFTS & QUERIES: FACING REJECTIONS & CHALLENGES

Can you tell us a little about your querying process? When did you first decide you were going to take the plunge? 

I always believe in doing my homework first, so after I had a manuscript completed, I researched publishers before drafting a query. I also rewrite my queries depending on who I’m querying. I like to personalize it if I can.

So, you’ve made the decision. Now what? Where did you go to find agents?

I started out in publishing without an agent and sold a teen book to a small publisher. Later, when I was interested in being agented to expand the market I could submit to, I used resources like SCBWI or Agent Query to curate a list. 

What kind of response did you receive when you first started querying?

Lots of rejections, but some of them were very encouraging, and a few wanted to see more work.

Do you remember how it felt to send your first query letter? Do you remember how it felt  receiving your first query rejection? 

Initially, it all feels scary to put yourself out there, and rejection seems so crushing and unfair. Your skin gets thicker, and I think all writers know that chocolate is your friend when you get a rejection.

Were any of the manuscripts you queried early on ones that you’ve since been able to get published? If so, which one(s)?

Anglerfish was one that I had queried early on and rewrote many times until it finally found a wonderful home. 

Were there any query mistakes that you made early on that you realize now and wish you had known before? 

Obsessing over sent queries. Don’t do it. Or try not to. 

How many queries do you think you sent out before you found your agent match?

I currently do not have an agent. When I did have an agent, I think I sent about 40 queries before I had an offer. 

How did you end up with your current agent/agency?

I am currently without an agent. What I learned from having one in the past is that it is very important to find someone who is a good match for you. I’ve just now reached a point where I’m starting to consider if I’d like an agent again, and I’ve been very selective in who I query. 

Thank you for sharing this, Elaine. I think this is a fantastic piece of information for writers and illustrators to take note of. Making sure that you’re paired with the right agent is so incredibly important- and worth the wait.

“What I learned from having one (an agent) in the past is that it is very important to find someone who is a good match for you.”

WRITING COMMUNITY, INVALUABLE RESOURCES & MOTIVATION

When you first started out, were you writing alone?

Yes. I don’t think it has changed that much!

Did you have anyone to use as a sounding board or to get feedback/critique on your work?

Yes. I used to have a great online critique group. I think any of those writers would still be there to read if I asked. Currently, for my STEM picture books, I ask a scientist/expert to read my manuscript for accuracy.

Where did you go to find your writing community?

SCBWI Blueboards – a wonderful source for new writers. Locally, I’ve met some people through bookstore events, and I try to stay in touch via social media.

Did you receive any helpful suggestions along the way? If so, who gave them, and what were they?

The writing class with Dr. Lisa Fraustino pointed out many wonderful resources, from SCBWI to The Purple Crayon. The advice I received was that finding out about the world of children’s literature will require doing a lot of research. These sites are filled with helpful tips. Study what others are willing to share, and keep improving your writing.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced early on in the kidlit journey, and how were you able to overcome them?

Rejection. You get rejected a lot. The only way I know to face that is to grumble and complain to yourself and to your writer friends, but ultimately…. MOVE ON. 

This is easier said than done. But seriously: Move on. 

Did you ever experience any moments of self-doubt where you questioned if you should continue down the publishing road? If so, what helped you to get back on the horse, so to speak, and keep going?

Absolutely. 

What helped me:

My online critique group: Robin, Amy, Jodi, and Shelley–fabulous writers and human beings. 

My virtual writer friend and amazing author, Jo Treggiari. 

My family and friends. 

My innate stubbornness. Stubbornness is also known as persistence. You need to be persistent to get up and keep going. 

If you had to share the top three most invaluable resources that have helped you as a writer, what would they be?

I mentioned SCBWI and The Purple Crayon. I also think the Facebook group KIDLITT411 is a good resource.  

Was the choice to keep pursuing your dream of publishing worth it? Explain.

Yes. I had a long-time gap between selling a teen novel and selling Anglerfish. I came so close, so many times, to selling Anglerfish before I finally sold it. I was crushed each time that happened, but I kept a lot of my angst to myself. But I learned through the process. I used to focus so much on a submission, but I don’t do that anymore. I’ve reached a life stage where I am grateful for what I have. Nothing is guaranteed. Keep working toward the goal and try not to waste too much angst on things you can’t change – like those rejections. 

Perfectly said!

“Keep working toward the goal and try not to waste too much angst on the things you can’t change—”

If you could share a single piece of advice with newly aspiring authors or illustrators, what would it be?

Write the first draft for you. Revise the manuscript with others in mind. And don’t forget to find joy and personal accomplishment in the process.

AUTHOR VISITS: LIBRARY VISITS, SCHOOL VISITS, BOOKSTORE VISITS

Okay, Elaine, we want to hear all about the author visits. Can you share a little bit about your author visits? School/library/bookstore- you name it! What do each of these visits look like for you? How long do they last? How do people book them? What have your experiences been like? 

Since I have experience as a children’s librarian, I visited some local libraries and did a 30-minute story time with my book that included a reading, some music, a flannel board of the ocean layers, and a craft. Those visits were fun and certainly in my wheelhouse. 

I’ve also done a few bookstore visits. I’ve had some that reached out to me others that I needed to follow the store protocol to set up. Once you’ve established contact, I find that the independent bookstores are so very welcoming. I’ve been asked to do a few events and festivals. Sometimes, it’s more of a meet-and-greet. Other times, you might be asked to do a reading. I always say yes when I can. Indie bookstores are filled with people who are so excited to promote books. They are people you want to collaborate with!

“Indie bookstores are filled with people who are so excited to promote books. They are people you want to collaborate with!”

Coming from the seat of a former children’s librarian myself and now working as my library’s social media manager and outreach and events coordinator, I’m familiar with how library author visits are set up. But, coming from the side of the desk of a new author who doesn’t have this experience and who’s looking to start booking events, can you share some of the ways you’ve done so in the past and suggestions you might have on how to go about this?

I’m a bit of a newbie on author visits, too! My best success at arranging local library visits has been to forge a personal connection. After that, I’d say it’s good to have a set program in mind. Librarians always want to know what you’re going to do besides read the book. So, having a program planned is important so that the library knows how to market you!

“…forge a personal connection…have a set program in mind…”

Let’s talk about the green side of things… and I don’t mean the seaweed. I mean the dollars! I think it’s fairly common not to think as much about the “business” side of being an author, because we’re so swept up in the romance of the dream of having our books published. Which is WONDERFUL. And MAGICAL. And GREAT. 

But… the reality is… it is a business. 

So, instead of shying away from the topic altogether- let’s talk about it! How do you go about author fees for your visits? What kind of packages do you offer, and how would you advise authors or illustrators go about setting up these boundaries for their visits?

Libraries are on tight budgets, so I factored that in when booking storytimes at libraries and kept the fee reasonable for my time. 

I have only visited one school, which had a specialized alternative program. They were doing a unit on sea creatures and implementing an art lesson, so they wanted me to read the book and have time for questions. 

I would advise authors to factor in what they might be providing to a school in terms of time and lesson planning and come up with a reasonable wage. 

From the viewpoint of a librarian (which libraries are all about providing to the community at no expense), what are your thoughts on paid author visits? Why are they important, and what purpose do they serve?

As a small library, I can rarely offer more than a modest fee for an author. Exceptions tend to be if they have a fully fleshed-out program. For example, we had an author and former educator (Nancy Tandon) who did a fantastic writing program for our library last summer. The program was more than just a reading from her latest middle-grade novel, so it greatly benefited the attendees who were inspired to write. I think author visits can help patrons be introduced to books that they might be unfamiliar with and possibly inspire people who are interested in becoming creators.

I completely agree with you!

BOOKS

And now we’ve arrived at my favorite part- the books! Can you share a little about each of your books and the inspiration behind them?

Anglerfish started as a homework assignment. We were challenged to write a nonfiction piece that might be suitable for a magazine or picture book, and my son was crazy about Finding Nemo, so I chose the anglerfish. Since then, I have been inspired to write about creatures that I want to know more about. If I’m curious, surely someone else will be, too!

What do you hope to share with your readers in each of your books?

Honestly, I hope that they are inspired to look at the creatures I write about and see the beauty of the natural world. Every living being on our planet is amazing in its own way. 

Do you have any favorite illustrations in your stories? If so, which ones are they and why? 

Anglerfish is the only book currently out in the world, so it has the honor of being my favorite! Fiona Fogg is a talented artist, and it’s difficult to pick just one spread. I love the cover and the bright depictions of the young anglerfish. But I would say the last page, with anglerfish alone, really depicts her life. I had a Goodreads reviewer say that she felt a little teary after reading the book, and she couldn’t say why. I’d say it was that page! It’s brilliant.
“This page depicts Anglerfish’s lonely life.”
“I love Fiona’s bright artwork of the fry!”
Any last words of wisdom for those reading your interview today?

Stay curious about the world around you.

AND NOW… IT’S TIME FOR SOME MORE FUN PICTURES

“Release day!”
“Student artwork from the Steward School.”
“A school posted this picture, so I don’t know this child’s name, but I hope every kid is this excited to read Anglerfish!”
“The Cook Prize!”
“A library patron that was excited by my book!”
MORE little fans! “A popular writer whose daughter loves my book because she identified with angler’s ability to light up the dark.”
Readasaurus Book Reviews.

It was fun to get recognition from Senator Murphy.

I appear to be simulating Anglerfish’s ability to open their jaws to swallow large prey! River Bend Books Author Stage.
Liam, who wants to be a librarian, at the Salem Public Library author visit.

Thanks so much for joining us today, Elaine.

But we’re not quite finished. There’s still one last item on the agenda. And that is… the GIVEAWAY!

GIVEAWAY PRIZE

Elaine Alexander is offering the following giveaway prize(s).

Yes- you read that correctly. There are TWO prizes! Well… technically, three. For ONE lucky winner!

Drum roll please…

And the prize is…

A school visit (in person- within a 20-mile radius of her home in CT or via Zoom) and a signed copy of Anglerfish and the accompanying audio CD. So, make sure to enter the giveaway during the month of January for your chance to win! (Tag your teacher friends below!)

HOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

During the month of January 2024:

  1. Subscribe to Chelsea’s World of Books blog
  2. Like this Feature Interview
  3. Leave a comment below letting me know you’ve done 1-2.

And that’s it!

FAQ: What if I was already subscribed to the blog? Does that mean I won’t qualify for the Prize Giveaway? Not at all! If you subscribed PRIOR to this month, all you’ll need to do is LIKE this Feature Interview and leave your comment below this post.

Did you enjoy this interview? Thank the author & host by purchasing or reviewing one of their books below! Using these sponsored links also helps support this blog.

Elaine’s book

Nonfiction Picture Book: Anglerfish: The Seadevil of the Deep

YA Mystery: Death at Deacon Pond (It’s out of print, but I still have copies if anyone is interested!)

Keep your eyes peeled for Elaine’s coming books: Giant Cuttlefish will be out in 2025, Femme Fatale of Fireflies in 2026, followed by Giant Pacific Octopus with a publication date still to be determined.

Chelsea’s book

Neurodiverse Picture Book: ADHD and Me

Connect with Elaine M. Alexander

Visit her website: elainemalexander.com

Visit her Facebook: @elainemsalexander

Visit her Instagram: @elainemalexander