Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Is it Middle Grade or Chapter Book?

You've finished that first draft of your middle grade novel. But now taking a long look, maybe not. Maybe it is a Chapter book. Or is it? 
How can you tell? Now it's not as clear as you first thought in your rapid fire, getting it all out on paper and spouting out to everyone, "I'm working on a middle grade story."
Going back to read or reread all the books that seem the slightest bit similar sometimes helps. And sometimes doesn't -
I found a blog by Emma Walton Hamilton with a clear way to compare.
She uses clues about: 
Audience
Age of Protagonist
Length
Illustration
Content
Yes, there are always exceptions!
I'm still researching every chapter and middle grade book I can get my hands on, but each morsel of information helps me on my journey.


Thursday, October 2, 2014

Resources for Authors and Illustrators

Yes, I have found my one stop place to find resources, links, inspiration and everything else that delights authors and illustrators. Elaine Kiely Kearns and Sylvia Lui, the founders of KIDLIT411 have done an amazing job bringing all these things together.
Wow oh Wow- so much to check out-












My sketch is featured on their Challenges for Illustrators spot and I'm thrilled to be part.
Thank you KIDLIT 411-