Featured Image: Four year old Jen being a total Gilligan in South Padre Island circa 1988.
I’ve aimed for this blog to be a safe harbor for those seeking traditional publication, especially #kidlit creators. After years and years of navigating these rough waters, I’m giving myself a promotion… You can call me The Skipper, at least for the remainder of this post.
With these new credentials, I feel qualified (finally) to share with you a post about Resources!
Consider this a place for a writer to get the highlights, the best of the best, all the things I wish I’d known right away… Rather than stumbling upon them accidentally, way later than beneficial for me. Now, help me help you have the most smooth-sailing journey to traditional publication! Bon Voyage!
Below are all things you should do the very day you decide to become a #kidlit writer
Step One: Join the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI)
The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators is the ultimate membership opportunity for #kidlit creators. When I first joined, I had no idea that a few weeks later I’d be connected to people who are not only talented and accomplished writers, but also friendly and truly mentor-worthy. Right here in my city! SCBWI has a plethora of online resources, but also real time, in person learning opportunities and social experiences, depending on your region, of course. Please, do yourself a favor and just join. You won’t regret it! First Year Membership Cost: $95
Step Two: Buy and Read Ann Whitford Paul’s Writing Picture Books Then Read It Again!
When I began this journey, I had no idea what the modern picture book had become. I knew what my daughter brought home from the school library and I knew the books on our shelf, but that’s where my knowledge ended. It took multiple conversations with SCBWI friends for me to truly grasp what the market now looks like. If you want to be a picture book writer, Writing Picture Books is a must read and reference! And, it includes a comprehensive list of some of the best of the best picture books that perfectly demonstrate the points being made in each chapter. I could not recommend this book more! Go get it! Right now! New on Amazon $14.99
Step Three: Join Twitter or Bluesky and Seek Out the #WritingCommunity and #kidlit community
I was the definition of a Twitter newbie, and when I joined, there was a major learning curve. However, through trial and error and just “working” through it consistently, I’ve built myself quite the community of fellow writers. This is the platform so many writers/authors use for all the things. Every contest I’ve participated in…that’s been because of Twitter. Contests aside, Twitter is a great place to look in on Literary Agents, publishing houses, and other authors who’ve found their success. And maybe even more importantly, it’s a place to find other writers who are going through all the same things you are… From first drafts to Book Birthdays, Twitter and NOW Bluesky have people laughing, crying, celebrating, and commiserating all about the writer’s life. Just give it a try! And then go find me on there! I’m @jenanyong
Step Four: Start Writing!
Whether you’re typing, words flowing seamlessly or stuck there staring at a blank page, further educating yourself about writing and it’s process can be extremely beneficial. And there are so many things to explore! Even with my college degree in writing, I’ve found myself having the most major breakthroughs in my work when I’m taking a class or attending an online conference or confab.
When it comes to continued education, I’ve dropped my anchor at The Writing Barn. I took Perfecting the Picture Book I and II (six-week courses), as well as their Write. Submit. Support. program for Picture Books (six-months). I went on to participate in The Verge, which was a year long program that helped me land my Literary Agent. Now, I’m cruising through their Empowered Author track and I’m so happy. There are many other online class opportunities out there, but I can only speak to the effectiveness of The Writing Barn. I definitely give them my stamp of approval!
Next up are important resources that involve seasonal registration or participation
The 12×12 Picture Book Challenge
In January/February, be on the lookout for the 12 x 12 Picture Book membership opportunity. It’s an annual writing challenge, but more so, it’s a community and treasure trove of resources. My first critique group was birthed from 12x12PB. I’ve received helpful feedback from it’s fellow members on The Forum. I love watching the Author interviews, and it’s just the perfect place for a picture book writer to be! First Year Membership $187
StoryStorm
In late December early January, register for StoryStorm a month-long brainstorming event through Tara Lazar’s blog. Guest bloggers post each day, sharing their little tricks and hints on generating fresh ideas. Ultimately, it’s an encouraging reminder each day to come up with a new idea and write it down, no matter how silly or seemingly terrible. At the end of the month, those who pledge to have written at least 30 ideas are entered to win some pretty great prizes! I was actually a 2022 Winner! Hooray! Free!
#PB Party
In early January, begin looking for news about #PB Party through Mindy Alyse Weiss’s blog. This is a writing contest with a literary agent showcase as it’s prize. But, there’s a lot of important buildup to the contest and there’s much to be learned about writing picture books through this time. The contest itself typically begins in March, but the pre-party is half the fun! I’ve made new connections, won critiques, and found inspiration and motivation through studying winning entries. You sort of get out of it what you put in…and it’s worth the effort! Free!
Who I Love to Read and Follow
I’ve been so honored to get to know some very special people through my OK/AR SCBWI. Tammi Sauer Ginny Myers Sain Gaye Turner Sanders Natalee Creech Kenda Henthorn
And a few authors I don’t actually know in person, but I feel like I do know them… Tara Lazar Pat Zietlow Miller Ame Dyckman Vivian Kirkfield Rajani LaRocca
Also remember, BUY and Check Out all the #kidlit books! Watching authors support authors is one of the most beautiful things about this business! And, I plan to update this list as I make new discoveries. Thank you for sticking with me!
My Pilgrimage to Publication and Beyond 