Coming This Week!

Week of July 15, 2012: How I Got My First Picture Book Deal

Quotes of the week:

I have been successful probably because I have always realized that I knew nothing about writing and have merely tried to tell an interesting story entertainingly.

—Edgar Rice Burroughs

The reason 99% of all stories written are not bought by editors is very simple. Editors never buy manuscripts that are left on the closet shelf at home.

—John Campbell

One of the questions picture book authors are most frequently asked is: “How did you get your first book deal?” This week some of my favorite people are going to tell you how the magic happened for them. And getting a picture book deal is nothing short of magic. The experience is different for every writer, and there is no formula or prescription that can make it happen.

As you read the first-deal stories, be encouraged. Every one of these writers is just like you—they are working, struggling, writing, revising, and doing everything else they know to do to find success as picture book authors. I am sure you’ll be inspired by these stories just as I was. Here’s hoping for a whole lot more book deals for all of us!

Monday—Aimee Reid—A Swimming Pool and an Agent

Tuesday—Fred Koehler—Perseverance and a Postcard

Wednesday—Laura Murray—A Dream and A Decision

Thursday—Rob Sanders—Critiques and A Consultation

Friday—Margie Palatini, Tammi Sauer, and Lisa Wheeler