Linda Sue Park says that before you write a book, you should read at least 100 titles in the genre that interests you. It's really the best way to get a sense of what's out there and what editors are looking for.
11. Can you discuss any current or upcoming projects? I am very excited about my first picture book, A Place for Butterflies. It's scheduled to come out this fall from Peachtree. I also have two other picture books in progress with this publisher. I can't wait to take the butterfly book on school visits. I know kids will love it.
12. Please complete this sentence. "If I could I would..."
My friend and former colleague, Brendan January, taught me to never leave room in my life for regrets. Right now, I'm doing everything I want to do. So I don't have an answer for this question.
As aspiring writers read this interview, I hope they will see that writing for children requires a lot of hard work and perseverance, but it is also a lot of fun. There will almost certainly be many frustrating rejections along the way, but the rewards of knowing how your words and your books can help and inspire children is the greatest reward I can imagine.
