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

Literary CPR

"Every book you read may not save your life, but some of them will."
-Adam Stanley

November Sketch A Day, week 1

Courtesy Linda Silvestri

Here are my sketches, and click here to check out the many other talented participants. A huge thanks to Linda for designing this awesome challenge and creating this sketching community.

Joanne Roberts PiBoIdMo notebook title page

I think it'll be easiest for me to post my daily SkADa in the right-hand column of my blog and a page of the weeks' sketches on Sunday, because I've already got posts prepared for the upcoming weeks. I don't know about you, but I hate my mailbox getting clogged with too many alerts. If anyone encounters problems, please drop me a line. Thanks for looking.

SkADaMo 2013 Day 1

SkADaMo 2013 Day 2

SkADaMo 2013 Day 3

SkADaMo updates

Anyone following my blog automatically might not realize I have put up my daily SkADaMo. I will be posting it as an image at the top my blog every day. For mobile devices, that may be at the bottom of the current day's post. I'm not sure. Of course, that means you won't be able to comment on them.

I've done this because I have a lot of content scheduled: writing tips, book reviews, etc. This way the daily sketch post won't interfere and your inbox won't be overfilled. 

The current SkADaMo image is linked to a page which will carry all my sketches for November. You can comment there, if you like. I will also be posting all the sketches for any given week on the following Sunday.

Whew! Sorry if that is inconvenient, but it is just easier for me. The truth is, there is so much to read and do in November, at a time when I am supposed to be spending extra time focused on writing. This is a way for me to stay sane.

I welcome your feedback and hope this makes it easier to keep up despite your own busy schedules.

And DON'T FORGET to change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time!

The Inside Story

The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators and First Book are teaming up for Inside Story. This new program connects readers to book creators through special events sponsored by Independent bookstores. Hooray!

 Everyone is a winner when new authors get to promote their books, Indies sell more books, and kids own more books. For every book sold at one of these events, a copy will be donated to be given away to a child in need.

This initiative needs our support. So check out the list of participating stores in the U.S. or Australia. Visit your favorite author to hear them speak about the making of their latest book. Don't forget to mark your calendar for 2014.

Maybe you'll be a speaker at next year's event!

For Julie :)

The first day of Picture Book Idea Month went well. After my initial idea, I did some brainstorming Tammi-style.

As for SkADaMo, I've been reminded I need to post more often, so here is the title page doodle for this year's notebook, and today's randomness. I don't know who this little thief is yet, but I hope to find out before the end of November.

Thanks for reading. I'll be checking out everyone else's sketches tomorrow am. Sweet Dreams!

Thanks Tara and Linda. And a big thank-you to Julie Rowan-Zoch for keeping me accountable.

vegetable thief sketches by Joanne Roberts

Picture Book Month Begins Today

Get your own calendar by by the fabulous Elizabeth O. Dulemba.

Welcome! November is Picture Book Month. We set aside 30 days to promote literacy and celebrate the wonderful art form that is the picture book.

Picture Book Month's creators have come up with a dazzling list of a participants. Become an ambassador. Grab a badge. Track the PBM champions as they travel the country. Share your favorite book with someone you love.

I have activities and recommendations planned throughout November. I'll also continue to post a Perfect Picture Book Friday review each week. From there, you can follow the links to discover the books recommended by other participants.

How will you celebrate?