More Than Just the Facts, Ma’am
When you think about writing for children, you might picture stacks of picture books or a shelf full of novels. But did you know there’s a large nonfiction market as well? In my workshop session “More Than Just the Facts, Ma’am,” I’m going to introduce you to the world of children’s nonfiction and educational publishing. There’s […]
The Charlotte Mason Method, Part Two
Last month, we introduced Charlotte Mason and discussed her influence on homeschooling. Her method is popular among many homeschool families, and it’s important to understand it so you can create resources that support families who follow this method. So far, we’ve talked about living books, copywork, dictation, science, and nature study. Let’s explore some additional […]
The Importance of Professional Editing before You Self-publish
By Brenda Covert True story: One year while celebrating my young adult daughter’s birthday at her favorite restaurant, our group sang the birthday song. Suddenly, a fashionably-dressed woman appeared at our table to wish my daughter a happy birthday and to give her an autographed copy of the woman’s book. I love books, so when […]
‘Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant’
If you follow our blog, you are interested in writing for children or teens. That, in and of itself, speaks volumes. You feel called to craft stories that will excite young readers, or you feel called to write Bible stories or devotionals that are just the right reading level to engage kids in exploring God’s Word […]
Let the Little Children Come
We’re naturally drawn to the power of a good story. It starts at a young age, doesn’t it? Jack and Jill and other nursery rhymes. Aesop’s Fables and fairy tales. Frights around a campfire and happily-ever-after bedtime stories. Jesus understood the power of a story. He spoke truth, then illustrated it with parables—earthly stories with […]
ArtSlam Live!
Six artists with one hour (or less!) to paint a picture that’s three feet square in size. What else could it be but ArtSlam Live? For the past two years, I’ve had the privilege of participating in ArtSlam Live, a timed art competition created by artist, writer, and creative coach Tony Snipes. Although a winner […]
Eight Lessons I’ve Learned About Writing
School has been in session in the United States for more than a month. This means that all across the country, children are facing the same question that has been asked for generations: “What did you learn today?” To my mother’s utter frustration, I’d often answer her question with a blank stare and a mumbled, […]
Writing for the Homeschool Market – Notebooking
One great way to get started writing for the homeschool market is by creating notebooking pages. They are fun and provide countless options and opportunities for creativity—both on the part of the writer and the student. Notebooking is a tool many homeschoolers integrate with other homeschooling methods. Its variations and applications are limitless. In order to […]
How Roundups Build Credibility
What does herding cattle have to do with writing? Surprisingly, more than you might expect. Both jobs require skill, stamina, and a willingness to get dusty and weary pursuing your goal. It also shows the value of rounding related things up into one place. That’s the aspect we’re going to explore today.
What Do You Pray for Your Writing?
What do you pray for your writing? You might think that’s a silly question. Of course we pray for our writing. But what, exactly, are we praying for? If we’re honest, our prayers are often centered on requests for favor with agents and publishers. Book contracts, large advances, and strong sales top our lists. Although […]