In previous guest posts, other authors have written that the heart of the story is in the characters and their relationships. I agree. But when writing about real people from history using limited resources, it’s often a challenge to get to know them. When I’m digging for what makes an historical figure tick, I look … More Mining for Heart: Listen to Your Characters
“I wanted readers to feel like they were in the pilot seat, so I needed the sensory details to make that happen.” … More Mining for Heart: “Put Readers in the Pilot Seat” by Michelle Cusolito
As we prepare to turn the page and open 2017, take a stroll back in time with some classic children’s books. Writers agonize over first lines, and for good reason. Beginnings are hard. Within them, there is the promise of a story. Some introduce the conflict, some the characters, others an odd tidbit tempting you … More Beginnings
Congratulations to Susan Roberts, the winner of Miranda Paul’s latest!
With the “Paging Through the Parks” celebration of the 100th anniversary of U.S. National Parks during August, it’s the perfect time to examine setting. Liz Garton Scanlon shares her experience mining the setting for story. What she found sprang from her own experience and memories, and how the setting had touched her. In the Canyon: How Setting … More Mining the Setting: “In the Canyon: How Setting Became Story” by Liz Garton Scanlon
This is truly the most amazing book: a book for all ages that teaches about safe drinking water and literally saves lives. “Author” Dr. Theresa Yankovich, Ph.D. created antimicrobial “pages” that filter contaminated water to produce purified drinking water. One page can provide a person with up to four years of clean drinking water. Read the … More The Drinkable Book
I’m a writer in Loveland, Colorado who is drawn to “stories with heart.” I spend my days mining for moments that matter, characters that inspire, and experiences that open up our worlds. Please stay tuned as more content is added: Posts exploring children’s books for Perfect Picture Book Friday. Resources for parents and teachers for children … More Welcome!
Beth Anderson, Children's Writer 