I'm on the 5-hour train ride home from a children's book writer's retreat at an historic lodge on Lake George.
It was cold, there was no cell phone reception, and no TV, so I'm lucky to be alive.
But I met some nice editors and fellow writers, got a manuscript critiqued, and got lots of creative inspiration, so it was a win overall.
Would've been better in summer, that's all. (Some people like to look at leaves and drink coffee. I like to jump in the water and drink Coke Zero.)
Here's some free advice, courtesy of a real book editor: the title and first line are by far the most important elements of any picture book.
That's my freebie to you--I just saved you a few hundred bucks. You're welcome.
Okay, one more: "Every day we make new children--let us also make new children's books."
I love the pictures in this post. The advice wasn't so shabby either! :D
ReplyDeleteThan's for the great advice!
ReplyDeleteWell, thanks for the writing tips! I'll remember that as I strive to write my third book in a series (which it turns out really needs to be the first book in the series. Does that make any sense?)
ReplyDeleteAs I've said numerous time before now, Mr. Tarpley, I really enjoy reading about you and your boys--especially the funny blonde one (whose name is escaping me right now.)I LOVE his geometry reasoning. He and I are birds of a feather in that regard! I am always laughing--or chuckling--out loud when I'm reading your blog. Thank you so much for making my world a little better place every now and then!
Good luck with your book, Lolly Fab!
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