Illustration Is Art

"Children's literature is the first literature and the first art that children are exposed to. It should be good. And when it is, it should be given respect."
 - William Joyce*



Bookplate by Celeste Gagnon

*Via Muddy Colors

No Matter What

"… if you really love to write and you really love to tell stories and you really love to draw,
you just have to keep doing it no matter what anybody says."
- William Joyce*

Bookplate by Martin Ursell for My Home Library

*Via Muddy Colors

Crazy for Picture Books

A page from my PiBoIdMo sketchbook, Nov. 25, 2013

Last November I copied these quotes* from author, Mike Jung. It inspired me to draw aliens ('don't know that I'd ever done that before), and go crazy my last few days of Picture Book Idea Month.

In the comment section of the post, I noted this advice from Lauri Meyers, writer and founding member of Wordsmiths, 

It’s easier to tone down crazy than to make boring interesting.

Wow. 

I had a whole new way to look at my characters, themes, plots, and ideas. Even the ideas I am in love with could probably use a little spicing up!

Emma Ledbetter, editor extraordinaire, has said she loves a book that makes her think, "Now how in the world did he come up with that?" **

I don't think like Mac Barnett or William Joyce, but I definitely need to make my stories stand out in a crowd.

So whether you're participating in PiBoIdMo, SkADaMo, or alone in your studio, why not challenge yourself to explore the vast universe outside your comfort zone? Who knows what ideas may come your way?!

*You can read the original post on Tara's blog, or visit Mike's blog, to learn more about his debut novel, GEEKS, GIRLS, AND SECRET IDENTITIES.

**Writing for Kids (While Raising Them) 11-4-12