My First Picture Book–and (Purposeful) Luck

Wow. How has it been three years since I updated this blog? It was 2022 when I started studying picture books under the mentorship of Bethany Hegedus at The Writing Barn in Austin, TX. Since then–thanks to Bethany’s guidance, the classes I’ve taken, and an amazing program for writers called The Verge (that Bethany also created)–I signed with Sara Crowe Literary and have my first picture book contract. In the fall of 2027, Hidden Women: How Louise Larned and Rose Stokes Became America’s First Women Camouflage Artists, will be published by Candlewick Press. It will be illustrated by the talented Ashley Yazdani. I am so grateful.

Do I feel lucky? Yes–and no. In the world of traditional publishing, there is always a bit of chance and good fortune involved when authors get deals. But almost every day for the past few years, I have taken intentional steps to put myself in luck’s way. I’ve read hundreds of books (particularly picture books) to study authors’ craft. I’ve taken courses on anything from building characters to increasing plot tension, and everything in between. I’ve paid for writing critiques from editors, agents, and other authors–which were often hard to hear atop the (almost 100) rejections I received from the query and submission trenches. I joined the perfect Zoom critique group–a small group of talented children’s writers from all over the country who I can count on for support, accountability, and sharp feedback. I also meet every weekend face-to-face with a brilliant local writer to create goals for the week, to debrief writing projects, to encourage each other, and for added accountability. And of course, I write, write, write. I have seen the hour of 4:00 AM more this year than any other time of my life (I also work full-time AND manage an equine sanctuary), but it’s worth it because I am taking purposeful steps in my literary life to help luck happen. When it comes, I will be ready.