I sent out a picture book manuscript to a publisher I met through SCBWI in July. Within 12 hours, she'd responded that the story was 'cute' and they would consider it. I have no idea how long the considering process might take but I'm pleased to have received that tiny scrap of validation. It's 'cute'. It was worth passing on to the next level. I hope to have great news on that front sooner or later. We'll see.
I also finished a draft of the Pajama Girl sequel this afternoon and sent it to my illustrator to see what he thinks. I'll admit it, I've been hyper critical of #2. It's very difficult. I truly loved Pajama Girl. It was like a direct gift from the muse, and a lot like Mary Poppins: "practically perfect in every way". PG2 required a lot more planning and drafting than PG. I think I've finally come up with something interesting and new that stays true to PG. Fingers crossed.
And now, a trilogy you should all read:
The Naia Underwood contest concluded with success. Our winner is happily reading the first book in the Aldous Lexicon trilogy. I love those books so much, I'm excited for her, experiencing them for the first time. If your curiosity is piqued at all, take a look at excerpts from the books. I dare you to not get sucked in.
PICTURE BOOK CONTEST COMING UP!!!!
Ok, something that you all might actually care about. MeeGenius, the publisher of my Pajama Girl, is hosting their second annual new book contest. Pajama Girl was the contest grand prize winner last year. I can now say that I'm a published children's author. Prior to the contest, I couldn't say that. If you have a picture book manuscript, illustrated or not, and you've been sitting on it or getting heaps of rejections, I urge you to consider entering the contest. I'm certainly happy I did it. The prizes are pretty awesome this year! Cold hard cash AND a publishing deal!
I also discovered this week that one of the contestants who didn't place last year just had their story published with MeeGenius, so you never know what could happen.
That's so great! I hope you hear something back soon, so you aren't left waiting and wondering too long. I'm crossing my fingers for you!
ReplyDeleteThe picture book contest seems pretty cool. It's super awesome that you won! Good luck with both of your books!
ReplyDeleteI'll cross my fingers for you!
ReplyDeleteThat sounds VERY encouraging about your PB ms! Good luck with it and keep us posted!
ReplyDeleteAnd thanks for the MeeGenius Contest tip. Time to see what I can come up with :)
You've got so much going on--I would definitely consider it good news to have your ms being considered!
ReplyDeleteI gave you an award on my blog today! Pick it up at http://carla-jansen.blogspot.com!
Carla
So much great news in this post! Good luck and I hope the publisher accepts your new book!
ReplyDeleteGood Luck and please keep us updated, so we can share your triumphs vicariously!
ReplyDeleteFellow M-G/YA Campaigner
Many congrats on winning last year! And thanks for paying it forward by including the link to your publisher, who is also offering the contest again this year. I'll be sure and check it out!
ReplyDeleteAnd many thanks for commenting on my blog! Like you and me, lots of other writers are wondering how to market their work outside of their friends and family. If I may, check out my post from last week, when I used an article from marketing guru Rob Eager to try and help us all out a little: http://laurenspathtopub.blogspot.com/2011/09/marketing-your-book-offline.html.
Thanks again! See you again soon!