I haven't met Sarah in person yet, but I have enjoyed getting to know her as we are both working with Clear Fork Publishing, and assisting with Mira Reisberg's Children's Book Academy Illustration class. Here are her thoughts about Stories . . . Creativity . . . and Connection. Melissa, thank you so much for interviewing me for your blog! It’s so inspiring to connect with writers like you and discover all the different paths and experiences on this kidlit journey. STORIES – D

Deborah Weed is on the blog today! I'm so impressed with Deborah's positive attitude and optimism. And her work on building confidence in young children through her Self-Worth Initiative is so important. I look forward to reading PAISLEY when it releases from Clear Fork Publishing in 2018 and to discovering QUILL POWER! Deborah - thanks for sharing your stories . . . creativity . . . and connection. STORIES -- Discuss what inspires your ideas and stories, and share the proces

Happy double book birthday to Joanna Rowland! I really enjoy the insights that Joanna provides in my 3 question interview. Read on for her thoughts about stories, creativity and connection: STORIES -- Discuss what inspires your ideas and stories, and share the process about your latest projects. Thank you for having me on your blog, Melissa! For The Monstructor I was teaching 1st grade at the time and it was one of those windy days where even the students that always listen d

I'm so happy to be hosting Julie Pepper's first blog interview! I really look forward to the release of Julie's debut picture book, IT'S TIME, coming from Clear Fork Publishing tomorrow, August 8, 2017! Anne Steele's illustrations look beautiful! I enjoyed getting to know my Spork Sister through our conversation about stories, creativity, and connection. STORIES – Discuss what inspires your ideas and stories, and share the process about your latest projects. My children have

You're in for a treat today! I have the lovely Jenna Grodzicki on my blog! Jenna is my Spork sister and one of my fabulous critique partners. I connected with Jenna as a writing pal through the 12 x 12 Picture Book Challenge (hi to all my amazing Cps!) and then through our publisher, Clear Fork Publishing/Spork. I spend most of my summer at the beach, so I can't wait to read Jenna's upcoming picture book about a friendly shark named Finn. Read on to learn more about Jenna and

Ready for another 3 Question Interview -- this time, with my friend and Spork Sister Maria Ashworth! Maria has lit the kidlit publishing world on fire with several terrific books and many more on the way. Thanks for being my featured author, Maria! Here's what Maria thinks about STORIES, CREATIVITY, and CONNECTION: QUESTION 1 -- STORIES -- Discuss what inspires your ideas and stories, and share the process about your latest projects. I am inspired by everything from movies, s