In the second in my series of conversations with authors and illustrators, I am pleased to welcome illustrator, Katrin Dreiling. Megan: Hi, Katrin. I just wanted to say that I am so pleased to have found you on social media. I think I first saw your illustrations on Facebook. I love your quirky, fun style. And I am rapt to have met you in person at KidLitVic2017 this year too. Katrin: Oh, wow thank you Megan I'm very happy I have met you personally and online, too. It's always fantastic to meet the people behind their profile pics in real life... Megan: So true. So, maybe we should start at the beginning, as that is always a good place to start. Has art always been an influence in your life? If so, in what way? Katrin: It certainly has. Since I was really little I would always draw or craft things. I have always been very interested in music, too. Not so much making music myself but listening to it and trying to understand the musician's mind and his/her work. Megan: I have been reading your blog. In your first post, Eins, you shared briefly about your childhood and teen years. Would you share just a little bit with me, and what has helped you overcome your fears of following your dreams? Katrin: My teens and even twenties were marked by emotional and some physical abuse by my parents and sibling and they pretty much had planned out what was accepted for me to do and what not. Even regarding my job choice. I broke free from most of that when I moved out, and later on moved to South Africa for three months to help teaching English at an orphanage. The wounds of such abuse last for a life time, though. To various degrees. I also stepped away from that past in a big way when I met my husband who helped me become 'myself' again. But it still took me a long time to come back to art because in my mind I still listened to what my parents wanted. Megan: I can understand that, especially the emotional and psychological abuse. It can take a lifetime to change your thinking, and is certainly a work in progress. What would you say was the catalyst, the reason that you turned to art again as an adult? Katrin: So, it was always there but very much in the background. My children then brought me back to it and my husband encouraged me to keep going. Megan: It is wonderful that you have had the support of your husband. It is so important to have a cheer squad cheering you on and encouraging you. I read on your blog that you were a teacher. What made you give up teaching and go into illustration? Katrin: It's really tricky to pinpoint a moment when that happened. I think I stopped putting more effort into building up my teaching career and increased working on my art simultaneously. It was a gradual process. I guess I could feel how much illustrating fulfilled me and that my work steadily improved... it was going somewhere and that encouraged me to keep going. At some point, I actually had three jobs - mum, teacher and illustrator and one thing had to go. Megan: Woah! That sounds full on. Katrin: Interestingly enough the money that I earned as a teacher versus the complete lack thereof in illustrating didn't stop me. It's an import message to my children, too, I think. My husband had the same idea unfortunately. Just around the same time when I stopped working actively as a teacher, he quit his job as a university professor and founded a tech startup. It's going well and somewhere, but in the middle of it all we sometimes look at each other and think we are completely nuts—with three children, a dog and a mortgage. Megan: Wow! Katrin: We still like to think that we inspire our children… even if finances are tight sometimes. Megan: I don't think that there is anything wrong with that. In fact, it might teach them something about what it takes to follow your dreams, do what you are good at, and what fulfills you. So, at some point you decided to go into illustration. What was the first thing you did? Katrin: Do you mean career step wise or the kind of illustration I focused on first? Megan: Good point. They are both different. Let's take your second question as I was going to ask you about the style of illustration you do. I love it. How did that come about? And did it come about before you decided to make illustration your career? Katrin: I'm glad you like it Megan, thank you. So, I've always had this thing that I would 'outline' things I drew first with a black pen. It's still how I work mostly. I use ink fine liners for outlining and then I fill it with any kind of paint or even (digitally) with paper collages. When I was young, art teachers at school, or especially an 'artsy' friend of mine back then tried to convince me it looked 'wrong' and that in reality things are not outlined like that. They only made me more stubborn I think. I admire everyone who can draw things realistically so that it looks like a copy. But it's not for me. If I wanted that I would use a camera. I'm interested in the things one cannot see and that tickle a child's imagination. The results are often wonky and quirky but I'm working on this idea and hope that it will be obvious to see and get better every day. Megan: I'm with you on that point. Realism is amazing, and I also admire people who can do that. But, I'm the same mind when it comes to illustration. I like how you say that you are, 'Interested in the things one cannot see, and that tickle a child's imagination.' Beautiful. Okay, I've said this a few times, but I do like your style. It makes me feel like I don't have to be perfect and realistic in developing my own style. I can make things a little wonky, a bit different. You have inspired me. Katrin: Yay! (Cheering Minion) Megan: So, what was the first step you took in making illustration your career? Katrin: First, I've created a picture book 'on the side' while still teaching. It's called 'How to get a fat fairy flying' and I self-published it. I think the 'true' moment of making it a career, though, was stepping into the 'public' with my work - posting it on Facebook and joining the Brisbane Illustrators Group. Both set a machinery of things into motion. You meet people and hear and learn things and everything just 'grows'. Megan: That's true. It's not something you can do alone. 'I'm interested in the things one cannot see and that tickle a child's imagination.' Katrin Dreiling Katrin: Then I started going to conferences. I did the CYA competition and won second place in 2015....I think? (I'm so bad with dates and numbers). Megan: Wow! Congrats on the win. Conferences are great for connecting with others. You have illustrated a book written by Michelle Worthington, The World's Worst Pirate. Can you tell me how that came about? Katrin: I met Kathy Creamer and later on her husband Peter on Facebook. They run Little Pink Dog Books and Kathy approached me about submissions for their brand new publishing business. They were also my first ever clients who bought an original art piece from me and I really appreciate all their support and that they believed in my work from an early stage on. Megan: That is so wonderful. Your experience really shows the importance of getting to know others in the industry and getting your work out there. Is there anything else that you'd like to add? What advice do you have for an emerging illustrator, such as myself? Katrin: I think the most important thing is that your illustrations 'tell' something that goes beyond just the visual. Have a message. The rest will follow (I hope this made sense...) Megan: Can you elaborate? Do you mean that each illustration tells a story? Katrin: Ideally illustrations in a picture book don't just show what's in the text but tell their own little tale. They also carry an emotion and atmosphere that adds to the story told. At least that's the kind of illustrations I always go back to when I look at picture books. Megan:That is what I have learnt too. Thank you so much for your time today, Katrin. I think that about wraps it up. Katrin: It was a pleasure Megan Thank you for the opportunity to talk about my work! Three Fun Facts about Katrin: 1. I'm scared of birds. If they swoop me or come too close to my head it sets off a ridiculous presentation of running, screaming, and arm-waving... 2. I can't get enough of watching Golden Retriever puppy videos. 3. I love to recycle art supplies and use the tiniest scrap of leftover paper for my work. If you want to find out more about Katrin, or would like to follow her on social media, head over to her website. www,katrindreiling.com If you enjoyed this post feel free to like and share.
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Jacqui JohnsonEmerging author, teacher, and child wrangler After coming back from the KidLitVic Conference I was challenge to re-look at my current writing project and edit for chapter length as there were some inconsistencies within the text. So as a topic for this month’s session, I chose to research articles which discussed both ‘chapter length’ and ‘dialogue length’ in fantasy fiction. I felt that this would suit our group as we all write in this genre. The articles presented discussed a variety of texts and the differing lengths of chapters. As I am currently working on a fantasy fiction, we looked predominantly at Jefferson Smith’s articles. Article One, Analysing Chapter Length in Fantasy Fiction looks at popular fantasy fictions texts using a more mathematical approach plotting chapter lengths from individual texts to see what patterns they form. We were surprised to discover that the longest chapter was The Last Unicorn with 23,000 words. Article Two, Analysing Dialogue Length in Fantasy Fiction by Jefferson Smith, discusses the total percentage of dialogue in a variety of popular fantasy texts also noting the amount of characters which are given ‘speaking’ roles within the texts. It shows the longest utterance, the shortest utterance, and the average amount. It goes into dialogue density, how many speaking characters there are, etc. So, if you want a new and different way of looking at dialogue, this is for you. Sorry, it won't help you write great dialogue though. Article Three: We then looked at another more general article by Brian Klem on the Writers Digest , How Long Should Novel Chapters be? which examined a broader approach to chapter lengths in novels. According to Brian, ‘There are no hard-and-fast rules on how long or short a chapter needs to be. It could be three pages. It could be 22. It could be 40. You shouldn’t set manuscript guidelines for yourself on chapter length. 'Each chapter in your book tells a mini-story that forwards your overall plot.’ Brian Klem So there you have it, Overall the general advice was that there is fixed rule about specific chapter length targets, although the important thing to keep in mind is pace and flow of the text. You need to ensure you are using chapter lengths to enhance and compliment tension and the events of the text. Using your chapter breaks much like a TV show would use ad breaks either to encourage the reader to read on, as you have left events when tension is high or once a problem has been resolved, allowing the reader to sit back and absorb significant events. These articles gave the group some interesting approaches to the question of chapter length in texts. With this in mind, we should always remember that through texts we are telling a story. By using the tools of chapters or breaks effectively, we can regulate pace and tighten tensions thus enhancing the experience for our readers. Megan's two cents: Personally, as a reader, I enjoy short chapters. It allows me the ease to say to myself, 'Just one more chapter before I go to sleep,' when I look ahead and see only three to six pages in the chapter. But, I will still read a book with longer chapters, and bookmark my spot as my eyes begin to close. As Jacquie said, it is about the pacing of the story itself. If you enjoyed this post feel free to like and share.
Karen Tyrrell Author is a Brisbane award-winning writer of empowering books for children and grown-ups. Karen’s books are inspirational page turners, often humorous, showing how to live strong and be resilient. Karen’s childrens’ books Bailey Beats the Blah and STOP the Bully are endorsed by Kids Helpline. Harry Helps Grandpa Remember won a RADF grant. Jo-Kin Battles the It, Jo-Kin vs Lord Terra and Song Bird Superhero share positive messages. Her messages include self-belief, resilience, team building, problem solving and STEM science. Karen has just released Song Bird 2: The Battle of Bug World: Can Song Bird stop the bully, save her sister, the bees and environment … before it’s too late? Welcome to the blog today, Karen. I’ve had you on the blog a few times now, and yet I always have new questions for you. This time around I would love to get your thoughts on writing junior fiction. 1. What drew you to writing junior fiction? And what do you enjoy most about it? I loved reading junior fiction to my primary school classes, watching how engrossed they became with child-centred stories and characters they cared about. I love creating humour and fast-paced action for my superhero, Song Bird AKA Rosella Ava Bird. She’s faced with dramatic challenges to save her sister from the bully … and save the environment and the bees. Well, you’ve certainly achieved a fast paced book with lots of action with Song Bird Book 2. 2. What is the hardest part of writing junior fiction? Combining all the layers of the story into one cohesive whole. My favourite layer is adding humour into the final storyline. I love watching the hero trip over and crack jokes about his dorky parents. I weave the child-centred humour into the final draft of the hero’s journey. 3. What are the most important elements to include in a junior fiction novel?Humour. Action packed adventure. A relatable kid hero and his/ her side-kicks. Yummy, delicious food. We can’t forget the food, can we? 4. When did you get inspired by the idea for your latest book, Song Bird 2: The Battle of Bug World? In 2016, I created version #1, Song Bird 2: The Battle of Hero World with a stop the bully and hero theme. Then I changed up the story line to add an extra plot line about saving the bees and the environment as well as the original bully theme. Bug World is a unique fantasy world, existing on two levels: the visible Bug World theme park and the mysterious world below the earth’s surface. There’s certainly a lot going on in such a short book. 5. So, what are your top tips for writing junior fiction? A: Junior novels or junior fiction: Primarily for 8-12+ years. Generally, a paperback with very few line illustrations (B&W) and the word length from 10,000 to 25,000 words depending on the series it suits. Books for young readers who are confident. B: Create brick wall challenges, struggles, and conflicts for the relatable hero character to solve. C: If your book is humorous, add hilarious humour to the very last draft. Think up crazy names. Create scenes to show-off slapstick humour and nerdy dorky parents who do ridiculous, embarrassing things. D: Make the story child-centred with loads of delicious food, tons of action-packed adventure and dialogue that is punchy and creates tension. Thanks for coming on the blog today, Karen, and sharing your tips for writing junior fiction. And don’t forget to check out the special prizes and giveaways that Karen has for readers at the end of the post. It’s some pretty cool prizes that you don’t want to miss out on. A superstorm destroys Rosella Ava Bird’s flower garden. All the bees are disappearing. A giant sink-hole cracks open beneath Rosie’s school bus, and mysterious voices rise up from the depths. A tornado blasts the house of Frank, Rosie’s sinister next-door neighbour, threatening Rosie’s family. And Rosie’s sister, Raven, has gone missing. Should Rosie lead a mission into Bug World to rescue Raven? Or stay home and save her family? You can find Karen on: Website: KarenTyrell.com Facebook: Karen Tyrell You Tube: Karen Tyrell Twitter: Karen_Tyrell Instagram: Karen Tyrell Check out the rest of the Blog Tour to win some AWESOME prizes: BLOG TOUR! From Mon June 26 AMAZON LAUNCH Battle of Bug World Amazon Releasewww.karentyrrell.com/amazon-release-battle-bug-world/ From Mon June 26 Battle of Bug World AMAZON LAUNCH From Tues June 27 CURLY Q’S Kids Book Review From Tues June 27 REVIEW Just Write For Kids. A New Eco Adventurefrom Karen Tyrrell From Wed June 28 REVIEW Georgina Ballantine review From Thurs June 29 Writing Junior Fiction with Megan Higginson From Fri June 30 REVIEW & interview http://www.readilearn.com.au/blog/ BOOK GIVEAWAYS! Just leave a comment on any of the posts in the blog tour, to win a copy of The Battle of Bug World (Song Bird 2). Add initials SB2 FREE Children’s Book Assessment! Win a free children’s book assessment (up to 10 pages) by the author Karen Tyrrell. Just comment on any of the posts in the blog tour and add the initials CBA FREE Artwork! Win signed artwork by illustrator Trevor Salter. Add initials AW Remember the more you comment, the more chances you have to win The Battle of Bug World. Good luck 😊 If you enjoyed this post feel free to like and share. And don't forget to comment to go into the running to win a prize.
Guest blogger Michelle LewryAuthor | Story Time and Baby Rhyme Time presenter | Master miso soup maker. So you’re a writer? What’s so special about your writing? Can you sum up what you write in a sentence? No? How about three words? Nope? In her Building Your Brand workshop at the KidLitVic2017 Conference, editor extraordinaire Lisa Berryman asked a room full of rapt writers these same questions (only she wasn’t so thug-like) because ladies and gentlemen, whether we like it or not, today’s publishing world demands authors (emerging or established) to create their own brand. A brand can be described as a "unique and CAREFULLY designed IMAGE which DIFFERENTIATES your product from your competitors.” Sorry about all the capitals but it’s important you understand you are now officially a product, just like a box of cereal on a supermarket shelf. So, are you the earth-friendly oats in the compostable khaki box or the crunchy, punchy, choccy puffs with the goofy gorilla on the front? Let’s find out. Grab some pens, (coloured ones), some paper (a big piece), and put on your best advertising exec suit (or twin set). Write down what you think are your Unique Selling Points — we’ve all got them, the trick is not to take a backward step, don’t be modest, write ‘em down loud and proud. Weed out the daggy bits then write yourself a spiffy one-liner about what you do. Nice! Now take your spiffy one-liner and condense it even further into about 3 or so words. This is the essence of your brand. Kinda scary but exciting at the same time, isn’t it? Build your brand around these words, always be true to them and don’t diss them by acting unprofessionally. Well done, you! You’ll know you’ve got a good brand thing going when your writer’s conference conversations go something like this-- Editor: So, what do you write? You: YA coming-of-age stories with rock’n’roll street cred. Editor (raises an eyebrow): Uh-huh. Working on anything at the moment? You: I’m writing about the sexual misadventures of an over-privileged, under-parented, 16-year-old in 2017, Tokyo. Editor: Really. Can I have a look at it? You: I’ll have it to you tomorrow! Please, if you see one of Lisa Berryman’s workshops advertised at a writing conference near you, GO! Lisa is responsible for publishing and growing the brand of Australia’s top writing talent. You will learn heaps! Good luck! About Michelle Since reading her first book, (about a bear bouncing on a bed) Michelle’s always had a book in her hands or a story running through her head. Surprisingly, Michelle studied painting at university but found awful artists don’t make a living so she travelled to Japan seeking adventure and employment as an English teacher. During her 10 years stint in Japan, Michelle didn’t read any books or write any stories but she did learn how to make a ripper miso soup and offend people with her manly Japanese. She won the 1999 Western Tokyo Karaoke Championship and a second place for the Best Tamborine Solo by a Female, 2001. When Michelle returned to Australia, she went on a book-reading binge. One lonely night, she wrote a picture book manuscript. The manuscript won a prize. Encouraged, Michelle kept writing her stories. Now she writes picture books, middle-grade fiction, plays for children and YA Fiction (so she can swear and talk about rude things). By day, Michelle is an energetic Story Time and Baby Rhyme Time presenter at her local library. She relishes her role in creating excitement around reading for young children. She’s passionate about early literacy, especially for underprivileged families. You can find out more on Michelle's LinkedIn page. For previous guest blog posts by attendees to KidLitVic: KidLitVic2017 Lessons by Pamela Uekerman reflects on the conference as a whole. Full Steam Ahead. KidLitVic2017 by Karen Hendriks covers the various panels on the day. KidLitVic2017: A Reflection by Juliet Sampson chats about her observations and the changes in publishing trends. Learn How to Master Manuscript Assessments with Carole Lander. For another perspective and further information on the author branding workshop, please read the guest post, It’s All About Your Brand by Penelope Pratley. For more coverage and different perspectives: From an organiser's perspective: The KidLitVic 2017- Meet the Publishers Conference Wrap-Up by Nicky Johnson Tania McCartney gives her view of KidLit, along with what she is up too, on her blog, Works-in-progress, KidLitVic and Crystal Kite! Romi Sharp reflects on her experiences on her blog, KidLitVic2017 Reflections Tabitha Page talks about her first KidLitVic experience and how AWESOME it was. Kris Sheather gives an informative overview of the entire conference in her blog, KidLitVic - In Melbourne. If you enjoyed this post feel free to like and share.
Guest post by Penelope PratleyIllustrator | Emerging Writer | Educator| harp player. It’s now two weeks after KidLitVic Conference 2017. The air has cleared and most of us have returned to our experience of reality. Cleaning the house, washing clothes, running around after children telling them to put clothes on, picking clothes up, putting clothes away, trying to feed the children who are supposed to be wearing said clothes, and so on. (Not to mention chasing a bunny, herding chickens and making sure the arthritic guinea pig is alive). The Conference KidLitVic Conference is a wonderful gift conceived by people who truly care about sharing their love of Books, Publishing, and Illustration, with complete newbies, established veterans, and everything in between. It’s a gift of information that you can choose to put in a cupboard and forget about, or it’s a gift you can use. I returned home brimming with determination to use what I had learnt. Upon arrival at the conference, as friends (new and old) mingled, we talked about what’s working and what isn’t, about successes and occasionally, failures. But standing in a room full of delegates who are just as passionate and enthusiastic about this industry as you are makes you think, ‘how do I make myself stand out from all the other incredible writer, author, illustrator types?’ Enter Lisa Berryman! How do I make myself stand out from all the other incredible writer, author, illustrator types? While attending this year’s conference I was fortunate enough to secure a place in Lisa Berryman’s ‘It’s All About Your Brand Workshop’. All the while thinking ‘I’m hoping to be an illustrator. I’m not a brand’. Turns out that’s not true, O’ little self-doubting-whisper. I am finding (as I grow and erm . . . mature) that it’s easier to learn from other’s mistakes rather than making the same mistakes on your own. Having said this, there is an even better way to avoid making more mistakes than necessary. That is to be teachable and receive first hand information from someone within the industry. It's All About Your Brand Workshop by Lisa Berryman Considering Lisa Berryman has been a Children’s publisher at HarperCollins Publishers Australia for seventeen years, I told my doubting whisper to ‘shush’ and headed up the stairs to attend her workshop. While attending this year’s conference I was fortunate enough to secure a place in Lisa Berryman’s ‘It’s All About Your Brand Workshop’. All the while thinking ‘I’m hoping to be an illustrator. I’m not a brand’. Turns out that’s not true, O’ little self-doubting-whisper. I am finding (as I grow and erm . . . mature) that it’s easier to learn from other’s mistakes rather than making the same mistakes on your own. Having said this, there is an even better way to avoid making more mistakes than necessary. That is to be teachable and receive first hand information from someone within the industry. Considering Lisa Berryman has been a Children’s publisher at HarperCollins Publishers Australia for seventeen years, I told my doubting whisper to ‘shush’ and headed up the stairs to attend her workshop. Lisa walked us through several salient points on branding, with wonderful examples of products (and people) that are recognisable within their specific industries. The main focus of Lisa’s workshop was creating your USP. Your Unique Selling Point – which is kinda like an elevator pitch or sound bite, roughly speaking, the ‘base’ for your brand. Your USP/ tagline will communicate your brand’s message in a way that resonates with your ideal audience. I came home with my head swirling with ideas and one off phrases that were too long, off point, rambling, or too vague. I ended up using this formula: Thing that you do + Who you do it for = USP/ Tagline After a day or so I arrived at four options that I thought were suitable. I then posted them online to get some non-familial feedback. Once the decision had been made about my USP it was time to put it to work on Lisa’s second actionable point and make sure my website, and email signature were a true reflection of my brand. I spent the week after KidLitVic Conference re-working my entire website, making it easy to navigate and update. Another key point made by Lisa was to keep your website current and ensure you are present on social media to the right audience. The biggest thing I took away from Lisa’s workshop was to be as true to yourself, compelling, and believable as possible! About Penelope: An artist, illustrator, writer and educator Penelope loves to dance, nap, and teach art. She was a fairy, reads copious books, and co-owns a small menagerie. She is a wife, Mum, harp player, drawer and painter who believes that art should serve others, develop the imagination and create a lasting memory. Her goal is always the same to deliver uncomplicated quality that will bless others. Penelope currently spends her days creating all kinds of lovely images for clients, illustrating her first picture book to be published in 2018 and enabling others to interpret their world through creativity in Art. Check out her redesigned website: Penelopesnest.com Connect with Penelope on Facebook. For previous guest blog posts by attendees to KidLitVic: KidLitVic2017 Lessons by Pamela Uekerman reflects on the conference as a whole. Full Steam Ahead. KidLitVic2017 by Karen Hendriks covers the various panels on the day. KidLitVic2017: A Reflection by Juliet Sampson chats about her observations and the changes in publishing trends. Learn How to Master Manuscript Assessments with Carole Lander. For more coverage and different perspectives: From an organiser's perspective: The KidLitVic 2017- Meet the Publishers Conference Wrap-Up by Nicky Johnson Tania McCartney gives her view of KidLit, along with what she is up too, on her blog, Works-in-progress, KidLitVic and Crystal Kite! Romi Sharp reflects on her experiences on her blog, KidLitVic2017 Reflections Tabitha Page talks about her first KidLitVic experience and how AWESOME it was. If you enjoyed this post feel free to like and share.
Guest blogger, Carole LanderJournalist and author KidLitVic–Meet the Publishers–number 2 What can I say? The adrenaline ran high all day. I'm an emerging writer with several published short stories and one chapter book. But I aspire to have a novel published by one of the 'big' names–the ones who come along to talk to us at KidLitVic. I'm a member of SCWBI and attend Writers Victoria workshops where I often hear it said that to have your work in front of one of these publishers is 'gold'. So for me, the highlight of the KidLitVic days are the manuscript assessments. The organisers of the day give you very clear directions on what to submit. This year it was: author bio (max 300 words); story synopsis (max 50 words–which is very short and forced me to condense my story line into the key points); first 10 pages of manuscript (double-spaced). The assessment fee is $80 and you have to be on the computer at the moment the applications open if you want to secure a particular publisher! I'm sure I don't need to tell you that finding out the best person for an assessment is by researching the publishers' websites to see what kind of books they produce. Visit bookshops and libraries too. How to pick your publisher My 'brand' (to quote Lisa Berryman from Harper Collins) is diversity. In my chapter books, I put this front and centre. Jen Storer told me that I should aim for publishers who accept books of an educational nature. That's why I chose a publisher who publishes educational books last year. The publisher gave me valuable feedback on paring back my words and this taught me a lot about 'showing' rather than 'telling'. She encouraged me to keep going and expressed interest in seeing the finished work. That was extremely encouraging! This year I chose someone else entirely for my assessment. I walked into the room–which is quite small and filled with publishers at small tables–found my publisher and sat down in a state of high excitement! She welcomed me warmly (as did the publisher from last year) and praised my writing. I recall being told so many times to always praise a colleague's writing before adding the criticism! She also couched her criticism in a friendly way, pointing out that I would be advised to cut down the number of voices telling my story. Unfortunately, she didn't suggest that I send her the finished work but I can live with that. I'm fully aware of the competitive field we're all in. An opportunity not to be missed To sum up the experience of these manuscript assessments, they're well worth it because they provide rare opportunities to hear from the experts and that beats sending in submissions to slush piles and never hearing a thing in response. And I'm also told that they like doing them because they're always looking for new authors and may find one at KidLitVic. It's important not to be daunted by comments from publishers at these assessments. My advice is to accept the positive ones with grace, take note of the less positive ones and keep writing, revising and pitching. When I looked around the room at all those writers and illustrators I realised once again what a competitive field this is. However, if we have that creative urge, we must keep going. Good luck to everyone! And if you would like to read more on this topic, I have a recent blog article on Creative Kids Tales , Aiming for Perfection -- As it Applies to Fiction Writers. About Carole: Carole Lander discovered her passion for writing for children when she trained as a writer and editor at RMIT in Melbourne (2010–2012). After many years as an actor and drama teacher, it came as no surprise that her imagination could run wild on the page – as well as on the stage. By sheer coincidence, she has written several books and articles on the topic of disability. It started when she agreed to write and publish a book about people who live with conditions of dwarfism (Little People Big Lives). Raising awareness about contemporary issues is what she often does as a journalist and, in her children’s fictions she introduces diversity through the narrative without making the stories overtly about social issues. Full details of her publications can be found on her website: Writing With Checkword For previous guest blog posts by attendees to KidLitVic: KidLitVic2017 Lessons by Pamela Uekerman reflects on the conference as a whole. Full Steam Ahead. KidLitVic2017 by Karen Hendriks covers the various panels on the day. KidLitVic2017: A Reflection by Juliet Sampson chats about her observations and the changes in publishing trends. For more coverage and different perspectives: From an organiser's perspective: The KidLitVic 2017- Meet the Publishers Conference Wrap-Up by Nicky Johnson Tania McCartney gives her view of KidLit, along with what she is up too on her blog, Works-in-progress, KidLitVic and Crystal Kite! Romi Sharp reflects on her experiences on her blog, KidLitVic2017 Reflections Tabitha Page talks about her first KidLitVic experience and how AWESOME it was. If you enjoyed this post feel free to like and share.
I ‘met’ Giuseppe Poli on Facebook. I love his work, and I am interested in new and upcoming children’s illustrators, as well following those who have been around for ages, and all those in between. Okay. The truth is, I find people and their journeys fascinating. So, as I do with many illustrators and authors, I follow interviews, blog posts, podcasts, and articles about them. I love striking up conversations with them, and getting to know them. Recently, I had challenged myself to follow a dream I’ve had for years, and that is illustration. I have also challenged myself to do videos. Haha! Worlds collided and I produced a short video and posted it on Facebook. Giuseppe was one of many who commented on it. But, we did get into a discussion about a video he recently did of him doing an illustration. Here is the conversation which we decided to share with the world as I felt that it would help more than just me. Lucky for us all, Giuseppe felt the same… M: I love the video of you painting that you did on Facebook. The one you did painting the elephants. I've wanted to illustrate my own books for years, but have lacked the confidence. I know I need to learn the skills, and to practice, and also learn what is involved in illustrating a picture book. So, I am taking a course, and practicing. G: Awesome! It's all craft; craft before magic. And really, it's not craft in art, it's craft in storytelling with pictures. Look at Jon Klassen. It’s super simple, and works perfectly. I'm learning the craft of writing picture books, bit by bit. M: That’s wonderful. I started the other way. I’ve been learning the art of writing picture books over the last four years. Now I want to learn illustration. What are you writing? Current W.I.P (Work in Progress)? G: I'm writing picture books, and just did a second comic spread. I'm trying to keep the production quick so I can learn fast and not get bogged down in 'left' brain. Also, because I don't know what flavour book I will eventually fall for, and also because I don't know what they will look like until I actually have them finished. I've got a longer story I'd love to do for my son... a little scared of it and my schedule can't allow it right now. M: There is so much to learn, but so exciting at the same time. I want to learn illustration, but I'm not sure where to start. Do you have any suggestions? I'm taking a course in drawing, and coming up with characters. But, I know that there is more to it than just drawing. Where can you learn how to illustrate a picture book? G: People have recommended Writing with Pictures by Uri Shulevitz. I've not started there though. There is an online place called School of Visual Storytelling. I’m not sure if it has a picture book focus. There is a lot to the craft. Key thing I would recommend is don't get caught up in art craft/technique... it's NOT what makes the illustrations work. It is the pacing, story and facial/character expressions; this is pretty much the bare basics and really the only thing. Pretty pictures don't make a book something that kids come back to. Story does. And being a writer you'll have a knack for page turns and pacing, and the visuals versus the words... especially when you write the words yourself. I'd recommend finishing a full picture book dummy as quickly as you can, then reading it out loud to a kid. You'll know what words aren't needed because the pictures show already, when to reveal a visual surprise, etc. And just start copying your favourite Illustrators' characters. I'm learning heaps by actually copying exactly their line work. Just like writing, lines, and the absence of line, make an understanding and with art it's all the decisions that make a master. When you copy their line work down to the weight of their stroke, you start to feel when they make a mark and when they don't. For years I thought I could just visually analyse it. Now that I actually copy it, I'm learning so, so, much faster. Also check with S.C.B.W.I. about any local illustrator critique groups, and try the 52 Week Illustration Facebook Challenge if you can fit it in. Some illustrators to check out are, Mo Willems’, Don't let the Pidgeon Drive the Bus by Jon Klassen, Lauren Child’s Charlie and Lola, or Peppa Pig. G: Yep, you will find your own style — your artist self can't resist to add more. You will borrow bits, and learn from others, and your own unique art will come through. I've signed up for http://Schoolism.com and love it. Animation and colour and light are things I learn from at the moment. Soon you will feel like you are at a feast of colours and techniques, and you'll be drawing and illustrating to your heart's content. It's the same journey as writing — you just have to keep creating, reflecting, getting feedback, and trying again — same journey. M: That is so true. By the way, I want to say congratulations on Baby Band. It's been getting some great reviews. G: Oh thank you! I almost quit on that book, but I kept remembering positivity. M: Why did you nearly quit? G: I just had a really high and deep goal for it, and anything less felt like I was just taking an easy option I wanted to create art that spoke like fine art; something deeper for the older students, for deeper visual literacy. Plus, I didn't want to settle for the standard illustrations. I just had this feeling/pull to create something that I hadn't before. It’s a real journey… and really testing. M: I'm so glad you kept going. G: I can't seem to settle on easy, or known. It’s always more that we can do. Thanks, Megan. You know... I even wasn't sure if I was going to love it when it was printed. I’m so glad I do. I’m really proud of it. M: I'm so pleased. It's great. I'm sure you learnt a lot in the process. G: Yeah, I did and it's made me better, at least I feel better. There is nothing like a creative pursuit to bring the best out of us, hey Megan. M: It’s been fabulous chatting with you, Giuseppe. You have given some really great advice to anyone who wants to get into illustration. But especially for those, like myself, who want to add to their own stories through illustration. Do you have any final words of advice for writer’s who want to go into illustration? G: Emotional pacing is where it’s at. As a writer you’ll already understand pacing and you’ll have a feel for what you want the reader to experience...so you will have a feel for what they see and what they hear and you can play with that eg: you don’t need to show what’s in the words. There’s three hurdles to get through: 1. There is craft and heart. 2. There is you. 3. There is your process. Goal: You will make marks, in the way you love to, to make artwork that moves people when paired with your words. You’ll start with the craft of illustration but don’t get stuck in craft. You want to get to heart...and you’ll get to heart by following yours. Start with illustrations you love, and try to replicate them. Why? Because all the decisions have already been made. You need to find out if you can recreate it (eg: your technical skills) and also enjoy working in that style (e.g. the process). For me, I love some amazing Tolkien watercolours but when I tried to replicate them… it took me far too long and I just didn’t like working like that. The key is you have to find a process that you love, because you are going to make a lot of mistakes and you don’t want to have an art practice that is too laborious and too easy to make excuses not to do. I guess it’s just the same inner journey that you go through to be a writer. So now you are making art that you enjoy doing… final step is moving the reader’s heart. Here again, look to what has worked before. You don’t need a stack of craft to make a tonne of heart. I guess there is one key thing that seems to be super important and it’s related to pacing - it’s contrast. When you are feeling good about your techniques, have a think about contrast in your work. Contrasts in dark and brights, line work, gesture, shape, layout etc - contrast is a handy question to ask yourself when you are reflecting on your work and wondering if you have really pushed it as far as you could go. Also remember…. kids are super forgiving. 'You don’t need a stack of craft to make a tonne of heart.' And lastly, what are three fun facts about you? 1. I used to teach Salsa dancing. Man, that was fun. 2. I seem to be the Pied Piper at kids’ parties. I just love mucking around with them. 3. I’m still learning too, but I’ve only recently felt brave enough to share my fumblings online...because I think it’s important that kids see the reality of how we make magic and know that they can too. Thanks so much, Giuseppe for your time, your insights and advice. And for sharing your journey. Good luck with your current, and future projects. I can't wait to see what you do next. You can find more of Giuseppe's work, and his books on his website: www.giuseppepoli.com www.giuseppepoli.com On Instagram at: Giupeppe Poli Artist On Facebook: Giuseppe Poli Artist And you can buy Baby Band online at Booktopia.com and in all good bookstores. If you enjoyed this post feel free to like and share.Guest blog by Juliet SampsonSpreading sunshine and inspiration. There was a buzz in the air as I walked through the doors of the State Library of Victoria and into a foyer full of people in the book industry. After months of waiting, the day had finally arrived. I believe the world of a writer is not just about sitting behind a desk, its about networking, meeting and greeting others in your field and understanding your brand. It is about sharing your knowledge and keeping the world of storytelling alive. As the clock struck 9:30am we all gathered in the theartette. KidLitVic – Meet the Publishers Day was about to begin. The opening speaker discussed the importance of books and keeping stories alive. Throughout the day, there were various panels about Chapter and Middle Grade books, an illustration panel, picture book panel and young adult panel. There were also some seminars: It’s All About Your Brand; Presenting in schools; Self-editing; and an illustration seminar. I was lucky to attend ‘It’s All About Your Brand,’ that was presented by Lisa Berryman, children’s publisher at Harper Collins. This was an extremely valuable session. It allowed me to seriously think about my writing and what I stand for. I’m currently writing young adult books but I enjoyed listening to the picture book panel. I aspire to have a picture book published some day as I have been a primary teacher. Sometimes it can get a bit disheartening when you hear that a publisher may only publish three picture books in one year or even if an author is offered a contract, the process can take from eighteen months to two years to see the final product. But we all know in creative professions, it takes time and you do what you love and love what you do. The young adult panel of publishers discussed taboo issues related to Y.A. stories. A point was put across about who reads Y.A.? Yes, it’s supposed to be readers starting from thirteen to eighteen but research has shown that readers as young as nine and many adults, particularly ones in late twenties and well into their thirties are reading these books. It was interesting to hear how much had changed in one year in regards to the trends and what could limit sales from when I attended KidLitVic last year. The day ended with a closing panel, allowing questions to the publishers. It is events like these that bring together the Australian publishing industry and as an author I’m grateful to the people who arrange and make these dreams happen. Times are changing and the world of a writer is no longer just behind the desk, it encompasses so much more. Wishing everyone the best on their journeys. There is no right way and everyone’s path will be different. Happy writing and thank you to Megan for letting me be a guest author on your blog. It was lovely to catch up with you at this event. Here is a happy photo of us celebrating the joy of being in this industry. Thanks also to the organisers of KidLitVic and the publishers for making this event happen. It's been a delight having you, Juliet. About Juliet: Juliet M. Sampson is an award-winning author. Dance Demons, her third novel won 2016 Book of the Year in the Reader’s Choice Awards in the AusRomToday competition. She was also one of ten finalists for 2016 Author of the Year in the same competition. Her other two books are Behind the Mask and Bon Voyage! After seven successful years as a primary teacher, Juliet decided to make a commitment to full time writing and became a novelist as she wanted her stories to reach a wider audience. As well as writing three books, Juliet has written various articles for magazines and online blogs. She loves to inspire others and her quote ‘spread sunshine and inspiration,’ has reached a global audience. Juliet lives in Melbourne near the bay where she is surrounded by family and friends. Her other passions are travelling, dancing, sketching and doing voluntary work for charity. Her fourth novel is to be released later this year. You can follow her on her Facebook Page, and find more about Juliet on her website. So much information was shared at KidLitVic, that many have given their reflections and personal takeaways. There are so many, yet every post is different: Previous posts on KidLitVic2017: Be inspired and informed by Pamela Ueckerman as she shares on my blog her reflections on the KidLitVic2017 - Meet the Publishers Conference. Karen Hendriks takes us on a tour of the panels. For more coverage and different perspectives: From an organiser's perspective: The KidLitVic 2017- Meet the Publishers Conference Wrap-Up by Nicky Johnson Tania McCartney gives her view of KidLit, along with what she is up too on her blog, Works-in-progress, KidLitVic and Crystal Kite! Romi Sharp reflects on her experiences on her blog, KidLitVic2017 Reflections Tabitha Page talks about her first KidLitVic experience and how AWESOME it was. If you enjoyed this post feel free to like and share.
By guest blogger Karen HendriksChildren’s author, lover of travel, coffee, and the sea. On the KidlitVic2017 Children’s Author learning train there was anticipation and excitement and we were all ready to journey aboard. Middle Grade Station The welcome roused a happy chorus and the first stop was at the Middle Grade station. Did you know middle grade is subdivided into age groups? 5-6 years, 7-9 years and 10+ years. So, story develops from being heavily illustrated to a much deeper higher level of characterization. The priority is always and foremost your characters and story. The slightly younger readers like to read about slightly older children. So perhaps the upper level reader in this group is ten years old. Three keywords to remember include heart, smart and fart. Stories need to have a connection to the reader, be told skillfully and with a sense of fun. Illustration Panel Then we all chugged along to the Illustration Panel and those clever passengers alighted to a world of colour and design and passion. I sat in a little and one message was ‘Can you illustrate people in all different sorts of ways?’ The most successful illustrators do not just illustrate words. They bring layers of meaning too. Picture Books The next station was Picture Books full steam ahead. Wow! The one everyone thinks is the easiest yet the hardest to do. The play between the text and illustrations is what creates picture book magic. Please don’t patronize a child and do tell your story from a child’s point of view. Does your story have a uniqueness and an emotional connection? Red flags for picture book authors are submitting manuscripts in fancy fonts and colours. Please check your spelling and grammar. Remember the most successful picture books have layers of meaning that play together with the words and pictures. Young Adult Panel Station Back onboard after lunch we headed to the Young Adult Panel station. A little birdie tweeted that adults enjoy these books too although it is listed as 13-15 years old age group. These stories are very narrative driven with a distinctive own voice. YA stories must be authentic. Last Stop: Question Time Group Panel The last stop before home was the Question Time Group Panel. It was a power line of power with all those industry editors and agents. Members of the audience had a chance to ask questions and receive feedback. I did like the question about celebrities writing picture books as they do have the door open to them. It was stated that they are in a different category to children’s authors and that they give an illustrator an opportunity. The fact not many questions were asked is a sign of a good conference. Last but not least after the closing ceremony was the cocktail party to mingle and jingle around the room. The time flew and there just wasn’t enough time to see and do all. Aaah! But there is always next year. The hidden gold was finding others of the same flock and being with your own kind. About Karen Karen Hendriks followed her dream and started writing children’s stories in May 2016. She has written many short stories for children and has had several stories published in eBooks. Her wish to become a writer began when a lecturer at university said she had a talent for writing stories. As a university student, she assisted in the production of an Aboriginal big book ‘Gang-Man-Gang’ at a local Aboriginal primary school. The big book is still used today in local Illawarra primary schools. As a teacher, Karen’s favourite time of the day was sharing stories and teaching students to read. Karen is presently working on several new stories and has started doing author visits in schools. She has a keen interest in travel and has a great love of the local seaside village where she lives. Karen’s writing companion is a little Moodle called Elmo who is a cross between a poodle and a Maltese Terrier. Elmo is cheeky and very lovable. Karen can be found by the sea or in local coffee shops. She has a husband who is a ginger beer (engineer) and a daughter and son who make her world full of smiles. You can find Karen on her author page on Facebook. Previous posts on KidLitVic2017: Be inspired and informed by Pamela Ueckerman as she shares on my blog her reflections on the KidLitVic2017 - Meet the Publishers Conference. For more coverage and different perspectives: From an organiser's perspective: The KidLitVic 2017- Meet the Publishers Conference Wrap-Up by Nicky Johnson Tania McCartney gives her view of KidLit, along with what she is up too on her blog, Works-in-progress, KidLitVic and Crystal Kite! Romi Sharp reflects on her experiences on her blog, KidLitVic2017 Reflections If you like this post feel free to like and share.Guest blogger Pamela UeckermanPamela Ueckerman grew up as much in Avonlea, Middle Earth and Narnia as she did in England. She also had a love affair with Spike Milligan’s limericks. She now lives in Melbourne and is the mother of two boys. Pamela teaches creative dance and writes stories that are infused with the magic of childhood. After six months of looking forward to Kidlit Vic 2017, I almost didn’t make it as one of my children fell sick the day before. The stress! But, make it I did and oh my, it didn’t disappoint. Being in the same building with so many talented and caring authors, illustrators, editors and publishers for a whole day was incredibly inspirational. The networking was priceless and the panels very informative. The 15-minute one-on-one assessment that I booked was worth every dollar and every minute of stress trying to decide what to submit. I didn’t book myself into any of the workshops this year as I wanted to attend the panels, but I intend to next year. If you missed out on a ticket, do get yourself one next year as nothing can compare with being there. But, for those that did miss out and would love a taste of what we learned, here are some of the most interesting points that I took away from the panels. Forgive me for this being quite author-focussed, it’s what I do, and remember that these are the views of a small selection of publishers and editors; in some cases, it’s one person’s opinion.
I highly recommend to all aspiring and emerging authors and illustrators to book a ticket to next year’s event and fully immerse yourself in it. You can find more out about Pamela over on her website: www.ueckerman.net For more coverage and different perspectives: From an organiser's perspective: The KidLitVic 2017- Meet the Publishers Conference Wrap-Up by Nicky Johnson Tania McCartney gives her view of KidLit, along with what she is up too on her blog, Works-in-progress, KidLitVic and Crystal Kite! Romi Sharp reflects on her experiences on her blog, KidLitVic2017 Reflections If you like this post, feel free to like and share. |
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