Articles & Extras

Show Don’t Tell — A New Take on an Old Chestnut

Feb 14th, 2011 | By
Show Don’t Tell — A New Take on an Old Chestnut
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Writers have heard the axiom “show, don’t tell” repeatedly. But what does it really mean? Jane Choate gives a practical breakdown on how to handle this vital aspect of the craft.



Free eBook: Children’s Book Publishing for the Non-Celebrity

Jan 26th, 2011 | By
Free eBook: Children’s Book Publishing for the Non-Celebrity
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With the glut of celebrity-authored titles on the market, you may feel as if us “regular folks” have no chance of getting a children’s book published. But fear not, anyone – no matter how spectacularly unfamous – can become a children’s book author.



Inside the Mind of a Children’s Book Editor

Dec 10th, 2010 | By
Inside the Mind of a Children’s Book Editor
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To get published, it pays to understand the way editors think. Here’s a primer…



How To Get Published in Magazines

Nov 12th, 2010 | By
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In this video, Laura explores the basics of targeting and submitting to children’s magazines.



Where To Find Free Lists of Children’s Book Publishers

Oct 10th, 2010 | By
Where To Find Free Lists of Children’s Book Publishers
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The key information you need to locate and target a children’s publisher for your manuscript is a click away. Here’s where to find it…..



Ask Laura: “How Do I Find An Agent?”

Sep 13th, 2010 | By
Ask Laura: “How Do I Find An Agent?”
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Laura tackles one of our most common questions: “How can I find an agent to represent my work?”



The Latest Ask Laura Video: Should I Post My Work Online?

Aug 19th, 2010 | By
The Latest Ask Laura Video: Should I Post My Work Online?
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Is it a good idea to post your work in public forums and websites? Laura has the answer in her latest video!



New Feature! Illustrators’ Corner

Aug 7th, 2010 | By
New Feature! Illustrators’ Corner
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Five top professional artists answer your questions about the role of illustration in children’s books. Whether you’re an artist or a writer, you’ll find this info invaluable.



Submitting to Children’s Book Publishers: 3 Steps to Avoiding Rejection Letters

Aug 3rd, 2010 | By
Submitting to Children’s Book Publishers: 3 Steps to Avoiding Rejection Letters
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Jon offers a quick primer on how to impress an editor from the start — and reduce your chances of receiving that dreaded rejection letter!



Find Your Strengths as a Writer

Jul 20th, 2010 | By
Find Your Strengths as a Writer
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Make the most of your talent, by focusing on your strong — and your weak — points.



Ask Laura: How Do I Pitch an Agent or Editor at a Writing Conference?

Jul 16th, 2010 | By
Ask Laura: How Do I Pitch an Agent or Editor at a Writing Conference?
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It’s writing conference season, and that means more chances to meet agents and editors face to face. In this video, Laura talks about how to make the most of these opportunities.



Creating Realistic, Well-Rounded Primary Characters

Jul 15th, 2010 | By
Creating Realistic, Well-Rounded Primary Characters
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Every plot point is a result of who your protagonist is: the situations in which he finds himself, how they affect him, the ways he reacts, and why he cares in the first place. Here’s how to build an protagonist who shines.



Create Your Dream Writing Lifestyle – Without Spending a Fortune

Jun 24th, 2010 | By
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Choosing the writing path offers abundant opportunities for growth, excitement and fun. Here are some ways to create an fulfilling writer’s lifestyle on a limited budget.



Bestselling Author Lisa McCourt on Inspiration and Creativity

May 21st, 2010 | By
Bestselling Author Lisa McCourt on Inspiration and Creativity
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Lisa McCourt’s books have sold more than 5 million copies worldwide, and her picture book I Love You Stinky Face is being made into a major motion picture. She sat down with Laura to discuss her creative approach, and her quest to become “The Next Top Spiritual Author”



Working with Point of View

May 20th, 2010 | By
Working with Point of View
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Here’s a no-nonsense guide to mastering a vital aspect of the writing process: point of view.