In third grade, my teacher asked us to write a story that included directional language. She wanted us to describe how to get from one end of the classroom to the other. I wrote a harrowing tale about a determined bug that swung from shoelaces and narrowly escaped a falling spider plant to make it to the blackboard at last. My classmates took turns reading their stories aloud, and most of them were much less dramatic. Most of them, in other words, did exactly as our teacher asked. “First go left past the windows. Then take ten steps past the bulletin board . . . ” As my turn to share approached, I realized with panic and a racing heart that my story was wrong.
It wasn’t “wrong,” of course. Reluctantly, I read it aloud and two important things happened: (1) everyone wanted to know what happened next, and (2) my teacher took me aside and told me that was a story and I was a writer.
It still took me 40 years to find my way to writing picture books. But along the way I collected a few bits of wisdom from memorable characters and authors, which I will share with you now.
“Choose kind.” – Auggie Pullman in Wonder by R.J. Palacio
I spent most of college lamenting the fact that I was too painstaking a writer to be a prolific novelist. I was drawn to poetry over plot. More than once I got dinged for turning in papers that did not meet the minimum page requirement. But I wrote anyway (cause that’s what we writers do) even when I thought no one else would ever read what I wrote. Perhaps, because I believed no one else would ever read what I wrote.
It turns out that “painstaking” is also “concise.” That plots can be created after you’ve fallen in love with a character. I wasted all that time beating myself up for flaws that turned out to be skills instinctive to writing picture books. And you know what? I’m writing a middle grade novel anyway. Certainly not at a Jack Kerouac pace, but writing it nonetheless.
Be you. And while you’re at it, be kind to you. The practice will make it easier to “send the elevator back down” as Lin Oliver says, to others who are just starting out once you’ve reached the upper floors of the success high-rise. This business depends on all of us doing our part to help each other succeed. Because when we do, more stories get into more hands and hearts and isn’t that the whole point?
“Flex your toes and isolate your objectives.” – Raymie Clarke in Raymie Nightingale by Kate DiCamillo
After I realized I wanted to write picture books, I wasn’t quite sure how to go about doing it. Where did all the picture book writers hang out? I decided to start with a local SCBWI meet-up. When I got there, I texted my best friend: “Sitting in car, about to introduce myself for first time as writer. Terrified.” She texted back: “You’ve always been a writer. Claim it.”
Raymie Clarke flexes her toes to clear her head. Then she isolates her objectives. My objective was to figure out how to make my way as a children’s book author. So I marched inside and told the first person I met that I wrote picture books. Lucky me, that person was 12 x 12er Kirsti Call. “Me, too!” she exclaimed. “Do you know about 12 x 12?” I signed up the next day. And lo and behold this is where all the picture book writers hang out.
“When I’m really writing, I’m listening.”- Madeleine L’Engle
Soon after I joined 12 x 12, I read a Facebook post from member Jodi Moore, whose book When a Dragon Moves In, happened to be on my coffee table. She’d been unexpectedly moved to tears while working on a new manuscript, and shared the moment with our tribe. “I think this book has been in my heart for a long time,” she wrote. Yes! I thought. I understand! I was just beginning to access the stories housed in my heart.
Even though we are all alone with our laptops in kitchens and coffee shops, perhaps we are connected by our listening for the distant hoofbeats of an approaching story.
“BIC: butt in chair.” – Jane Yolen
Jane Yolen published her 365th and 366th books last month. (Can you imagine?!)
If you ask her how she did it, she’ll tell you “BIC.” Butt in chair. No matter how many great stories you have, they will not become books unless you write them. BIC.
“Seems I’m off to a new somewhere.” – Iver in Iver & Ellsworth by Casey W. Robinson
Trust your instincts, fellow picture book writers. Trust the characters who are in your heart and tapping on your shoulder—bring them to life. Let them show you how to get to the blackboard. You will surely dodge a few falling spider plants along the way, but the journey is exhilarating! And once you get there, your readers will want to know what happens next. So will you.
Casey W. Robinson’s picture book, IVER & ELLSWORTH, illustrated by Melissa Larson, debuts this month from Ripple Grove Press. You can find her at www.CaseyWRobinson.com or follow her on Instagram (@cwrobinson) and Twitter (@CaseyWRobinson).
Casey will be offering one lucky 12 x 12 member a signed copy of her picture book Iver & Ellsworth.
261 Responses
Can’t wait to see this book. Love hearing about your journey!
Can’t wait to see this, Casey – it looks charming!
Hi Casey! I loved your watching your webinar and now reading your story. Thanks for sharing these bits of wisdom with us. I can’t wait to read your book. Now, back to BIC!
Thank you, Casey, for this thoughtful post. I can hear your heart in it and it makes me want to keep going. I love Madeleine L’Engle’s quote. I’ve heard it before and it has often brought me back to writing what’s in my heart. I’ll be looking for your book.
So glad you had a teacher who recognized and supported your writing ability. All budding authors need that validation, I think.
I’m looking forward to reading IVER & ELLSWORTH; big congratulations!
Thanks for the inspiration! Looking forward to reading your book!
Enjoyed. your recent webinar about how the book came to be. Thanks for sharing. I can’t wait to read it.
Great post, Casey! Thanks so much. I can’t wait to read Iver and Ellsworth. It’s on hold at my library!
Love the cover of your book. I want to know more! You have shared such salient points about writing. Thanks for sharing.
Love these tips! Thanks, Casey.
At risk of sounding a bit gushy—this was a fantastic post! Thank you Casey. I immediately bought Iver & Ellsworth after seeing the 12×12 webinar. I am not sure how but I received it already from Amazon (before release date) and love it. The heart, the poignancy–so well done. Congratulations and thank you! After morning “to-dos” I am finally getting BIC and reading your post is a great way to kick start my writing time today. Thanks. 🙂
Inspirational post. Thank you. I remember a high school teacher saying that I was very parsimonious with my writing. I had to look up what that meant. Fast or really slow forward, a lot of years, I guess it makes sense that I write poetry and picture books!
Lovely post! Congratulations!
A great post. Can’t wait to read the book. Added bonus was the photo of you and Jane. The tips were inspiring and I have added the quotes to my collection.
Congratulations on your debut, Casey! And high-five to that teacher that encouraged you.
Congratulations on your debut, Casey! And high-five to that teacher that encouraged you.
Your story about the traveling classroom insect sounds delightful! Thanks for sharing this advice.
Casey, your post hit me at the right time. I needed to hear exactly what you said in it and by using quotes from books and authors, you solidified that I am on the right track though I was ready to give it all up just two months ago.
Thank you for sharing your journey. I can’t wait to read your book!
Thank you for sharing here and on the Webinar with Rob from Ripple Grove
Press. I can identify with the struggle to own this writing process and admit
That you write books. Thank you for your story.
What a lovely post! So delighted to hear about your journey and to have these good reminders. We all need them. Congrats on the book! Enjoy this first publication of many!
Teachers and writers. Two of the best kinds of people. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you for sharing your insights and encouraging words. I’m glad you plucked up the courage to go to that first meet-up. Now I look forward to reading your book!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on your writing journey with us. Kudos to your teacher! Can’t wait to read your book!
Thank you for this awesome and inspiring post! Getting my BIC now!
Loved reading this! Makes my heart feel good when I know I’m not alone on this journey.
There is no advice more consistently useful than Butt. In. Chair.
I like what Iver has to say in your book. And I like the inspiration you have for the rest of us. Thank you for sharing.
Loved hearing about your journey, Casey! And you are so right. BUTT IN CHAIR. Write/revise/submit. And repeat.
What a lovely and inspiring post! I think I will be returning to read it again and again when I need to be reminded to write more of what’s in my heart. I love the title and cover of your book — I will be looking for it!
Oh my gosh! I love your story of your childhood writer experience! So cool. And I also love Ramie Nightingale! Great story! I can’t wait to read your new book about your sweet characters. Thanks for sharing!
After I heard your talk on 12 x 12, I immediately ordered your book on Amazon. I was so happy that I didn’t have to wait for the official release date! I love it! You have such a beautiful outlook on life. It definitely shines through your writing. Thanks for a great blog!
Very inspiring! I especially enjoyed the “Be you” and “be kind to you” advice. So important. Thank you for sharing what you’ve learned as you’ve progressed on your journey!
Love this post and your book! Your writing is so eloquent. Thank you for sharing your experiences and wisdom. I bought Iver and Ellsworth and decided to share it with my 6-year-old twins, too. Now that they’ve started reading on their own, they won’t let me read to them anymore 🙁. But they’ve let me read your book to them several times! 🙂
Casey, thanks for sharing your inspiration and story. There are many helpful ideas here. Best of luck with Iver & Ellsworth!
Thank you for sharing your story. It really resonated with me. I also very much enjoyed your quotes.
What an amazing and inspirational piece. I truly feel empowered and encouraged. Thank you!!!!!! I could identify with so much of what you said and your background as a writer. I believe in the beauty of words and feel at times remiss that I have to cut my words for the illustrator to share their skill.
I was fascinated by your third grade story idea. I would have been one of those doing the literal interpretation rather than the imaginative one. Proves you had the creative mind early on!! Thanks for the post and all the good tips.
Casey, I want to know what happened to the poor bug. I hope your mom saved the story! Great post and I am looking forward to reading this book. I loved Lin Oliver’s statement-“send the elevator back down,” this is so important. Thanks.
Thanks for this wonderful post. Makes me so thankful to be a part of this 12 x 12 community.
I’ve written out the quotes you shared and tacked them to the bulletin board above my computer. I’m looking forward to reading Iver & Ellsworth.
Very inspirational post. We all need to remember being kind to others is wonderful but being kind to ourselves is paramount. Thank you for the post and congratulations on your book.
This sounds a very lovely book. Can’t wait to read it. Inspiring post.
What an inspiring post, Casey! Thank you! I’m so excited for your debut. Congratulations!!
Thanks for the great post. I’m looking forward to seeing your book. Good luck and congratulations!
Your post touched my heart. Our career paths as writer’s have been very similar. I also wrote as a child. Poetry, succinct and sweet, was my first love. I am encouraged to read that I can love a character first and then find the plot. Thank you for sharing your journey and sending the elevator back down.
You are so comforting, Casey. By your definition, I’ve spend most of my adult life being kind to myself.
Spent, not spend.
BIC – time to get to work! Thanks!
This was inspiring and beautiful – thank you! I look forward to reading your book. Congratulations!
Thank you for such a heartfelt and encouraging post. I hope every child has a teacher like yours who encourages them in something. It can make all the difference.
What happens next Casey? So well written. Good job!
Thanks for a great post! I enjoyed your recent webinar. Will we ever get to hear the full story of the bug that swung from shoelaces? 😉
Thank you for the reminder to trust our instincts and listen to the stories and characters knocking at our hearts. Can’t wait to read Iver and Ellsworth! Congratulations!
What a fabulous post! Such great advice and inspiration.
“She texted back: “You’ve always been a writer. Claim it.”
Oh, that’s a lovely friend! Keep that one!
A great post and kudos on Iver and Ellsworth. What a beautiful book and wonderful story.
Thanks for sharing it all with us.
Hi Casey. Thank you for this encouraging and heartfelt post, full of so many significant, brave moments in your writing life. I happened to really need it just now. (Not feeling brave today. But hopefully I will tomorrow!) I bought “Iver and Ellsworth” as soon as I finished watching your webinar with Julie and Rob last month. It’s lovely! Exactly the type of story I admire and value. Thank you for writing!
Thanks for sharing your writing story!
Thank you for the wise words in your post Casey. I really loved “listening for the distant hoofbeats of an approaching story”, and I really related to that first SCBWI meeting where you don’t know what you are heading into, but find yourself i the midst of an inspiring and supportive group of people who just “get it”. Right then, got my BIC and am straining my ears for those hoofbeats!
Casey! I’m so excited that Iver & Ellsworth is out into the world. Fabulous advice and I loved hearing your story. Hope we can meet again IRL (and secretly hoping you are heading this way for a book event).
I second what everyone else said! Thank you, Casey, for being so wonderfully real with us. I can’t wait to get my hands on a copy of your book.
Hi, Casey, your post is inspiring and encouraging. I love the mentor quotes. Can’t wait to read your book. Congrats!
Lovely and inspiring post. Thank you so much!
Great advice and encouragement. Glad we picture book writers are hanging out together in 12×12!
Very inspiring post! Thanks for sharing!
Just what I needed to hear today! My life has been so busy lately and my writing is suffering. Feeling a lot of doubts but your post really put things in perspective for me. Thank you.
Just what I needed to hear today! Thank you for the inspiration!
Thank you for a great post- just what I needed today! I can’t wait to read your book.
Great post, Casey! Thank you for giving us a peek at your writing journey,
Casey, these are great nuggets. My favorite is “Be Kind.” So true. Congratulations on Iver & Ellsworth – can’t wait to see it.
Such wisdom it your post and I’m so looking forward to reading your book. Thank you!
I remember my excitement when I wrote stories in grade school. What made me stop for so long? Is is internal censorship or the competition from other activities? I’m glad that you got the early encouragement and are telling stories again. Congratulations on your beautiful book!
These are all really great points. I especially needed the “be kind to yourself.” Thank you!
Love the line, “seems I’m off to somewhere new”! Added another enticement to check the book out from the library. 🙂
Thank you so much for your words of wisdom and also your kindness.
“Trust the characters who are in your heart and tapping on your shoulder—bring them to life.” Beautiful! Thank you for the inspiration, Casey 🙂
Congratulations Casey! Thanks for the words of wisdom.
So encouraging…thank you. :o)
Yay! Yay for always being a writer! Thank you for all your kind words
Thanks for sharing your journey. Congratulations! I’m in love with the polar bear already and can’t wait to see what is next when I read your book. BIC and Yolen. She’s the Cal Ripken of children’s books. One down for you and I am BIC so I can catch up.
Thanks for your words of wisdom and kindness. Kindness was my theme in my early childhood classroom this year–and is the theme I’m carrying in my life right now. Sometimes being kind to myself is the hardest part–but I’m getting better!
Good luck with your book–it looks lovely.
Absolutely beautiful! I’m feeling so inspired right now!
Wonderful advice, Casey! Can’t wait to read your book.
What an inspiring commentary — great reminder to trust our characters, but also to trust ourselves as writers who inspire each other! Thanks, Casey.
I LOVE THIS POST!!!!! So inspiriting and honest. Thank you for sending the elevator down for us! Can’t wait to read your book!
Casey – Sounds like you had a wonderful third grade teacher! It was a pleasure to read about your journey to picture books, and I look forward to reading IVER AND ELLSWORTH.
Did you ever write the book about your directional bug? What a great idea. If you didn’t write it–I might make a beeline for it! : )
Thanks, Casey for your post; it sounds so similar to my own journey. I’m looking forward to reading your book. Back to BIC.
Fantastic post, Casey! I especially love your description of your third grade directional story. So clever, just like your writing today. Congrats on your success!
Casey, thank you so much for sharing your picture book journey. And how lovely to see a photo of the incredible Jane Yolen so soon after NESCBWI! Congratulations on Iver & Ellsworth – I cannot wait to see it out in the world!
What a wonderful story! “…where all the picture book writers hang out…” An awesome visual of us all doing our thing! Thanks for a great post!
I loved the heart of your post, Casey, because it’s the heart in all of us. It’s the community that we share, and the sincerity that we all bear, every day that we write.
Casey, thank you for such a beautiful post and sharing your publishing journey. I especially love this, “perhaps we are connected by our listening for the distant hoofbeats of an approaching story.”
Congrats on your first story coming out for all to love. May you capture many many more!
What a great post! I loved reading about your journey and I can’t wait to read your book.
Hi Casey, Thank you so much for sharing. Congratulations on your story! Several of your comments really hit home with me including: Be you, be kind to each other in this community of writers, put your BIC!
Thanks for the motivational post. It is an exciting journey, isn’t it. However, is truly is all about BIC. Thanks!
Thanks, Casey. I loved reading about your writing journey! I need nudges like this to keep me going. 🙂
It’s funny how a character can pop into your head and never leave–even if it takes years to get their story down. Love your quotes. Looking forward to meeting Iver and watching the replay of your webinar. 🙂
Wonderful advice, Casey! Thank you for a great post and congratulations on your success!
Super advice, thanks! Looking forward to reading Iver and Ellsworth.
Casey,
I am recommending 12×12 to a writing friend and will share your post. Yes BIC. I’m off to edit poems. Thanks for your post.
Sue
Casey, your post touched my heart in many ways. As a retired teacher, I could vividly picture you standing in front of your third grade peers sharing your story and I could see your precious face when your teacher encouraged you with her words. What a beautiful moment! Thank you for sharing that memory. Words are powerful!
I also was touched by your closing sentence about helping each other succeed. “Because when we do, more stories get into more hands and hearts and isn’t that the whole point?”
Thank you for writing this very helpful encouraging post and for sharing your publishing journey in the recent 12×12 webinar with Rob from Ripple Grove Press. You have given us all a gift.
Oh, Casey, I love your third grade story, and I’m so glad your teacher told you what’s what! Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us all, and for being a shining example of the kindness you talk about.
Thank you, Casey, for sharing your writing journey and your insightful — and kind — advice. I especially appreciate this: “Trust your instincts, fellow picture book writers. Trust the characters who are in your heart ….” And I can’t wait to read Iver & Ellsworth!
Thank you Casey! I love this post. I love your journey and how you share it with us. I cannot wait to read your book! Congratulations!
Thank you for sharing those wise words with us. Congratulations on “Iver and Ellsworth” – it looks adorable. I can’t wait to get my hands on it.
I want to hear that third grade story! I’ll bet your teacher was really proud of you.
You are a great cheerleader! Congrats and can’t wait to read your debut.
What a wonderful post! IVER & ELLSWORTH looks amazing!
Thanks for sharing your story, thoughts and advice, Casey. The distant hoofbeats are clamoring and we must answer the call with our BIC.
Thanks Casey! I love this blog post and the way you shared your journey. Wishing you many more floors of success in the high-rise. Thanks for doing the webinar last month too. It was wonderful!
What a wonderful, moving, inspirational post! Thank you! These quotes/ words of wisdom are priceless!
Always liked “Claim It” and “Butt In Chair”
Thanks for your inspiration and advice! Congratulations on all your success and I can’t wait to read your book!
I love the encouraging words of your teacher… and your best friend. Great reminders that our words, both written and spoken, matter.
Thanks for the encouragement. Butt in Chair!
I really enjoyed your post, Casey! Thank you for the great advice and inspiration. I always found it difficult to meet those minimum word requirements too! In fact, one of my college professors once said my writing was “succinct… almost too succinct.” But I never understood why I needed to write a 15 page paper when I could say it in 5. 🙂 Thanks again for sharing your story and words of encouragement with us!
Beautiful post. Thank you for sharing your story and wonderful advice! Congratulations on your new book!
I loved this blog post so much Casey! Thank you for sharing your story and for offering so many tips for writing. I just watched the replay about your book and can’t wait to read it. Congratulations!
Congratulations, Casey! So happy for you. Loved the message you brought to us this month. It was a message of hope.
Loved this encouraging post. Thank you.
Casey, thanks for the encouraging post! Yes, going to a SCBWI meeting is a great way to meet other picture book authors. By the way, it was great meeting you at this year’s NESCBWI meeting!
It is great to hear that while you were in elementary school, your teacher inspired you to become a writer. I also was inspired to become a writer and illustrator while I was in school. Although I’ve had other careers to pay the bills, I’d always go back to writing and illustrating in my spare time.
Congratulations on the publication of your book!
What a fun webinar. I plan on watching it again.
Casey, what an inspirational post!! Just what I needed! Thank you!
Can’t wait to read your book.
Keep spreading your magic !
Lucy
Casey, What an uplifting post. Thank you for sharing your journey and for letting us know to trust ourselves. If we hold on to our dreams, they will eventually take form but believing in them and ourselves is the make or break element.
Such a wonderful post filled with excellent advice! Can’t wait to read Iver and Ellsworth. 🙂
Thanks for this wonderful post!
This post makes me feel so hopeful. Thank you. And I absolutely cannot wait to read your beautiful story.
Thank you for sharing your journey with us. Your words of wisdom will be helpful.
This book looks great! I’m inspired.
I feel the same way about discovering where all the PB writers hang out! So grateful for this group!
I love your third grade story what a great idea. Well done for staying true to yourself.
I love Ivor and Ellsworth and I love your article. Thank you for inspiring everyone to keep BIC and congratulations! You are a writer and a special one, at that.
Loved your webinar. Can’t wait to read this book. 🙂
Love this post! Such great advice!
Laurie
Thank you for sharing your story and great advice!
This is exactly the kind of picture book I like best. Can’t wait to meet Iver! Thanks, Casey!
Casey- I love your journey and loved the webinar. Thank you,
Thank you for the encouraging post. Can’t wait to read your book. I love “BIC, BUTT IN CHAIR.” Although I find it all starts with my morning dog walk. THEN “BIC, butt in chair.”
So excited to read your book Casey! Really enjoyed your webinar too. Thank you!
Thank you for sharing your journey, Casey. I learned two things: a) CIB IS important no matter what others say do think. b) I am a writer and illustrator not just an illustrator. It took me years to figure this out. Your little school assignment where you needed to describe going from one side of the classroom to the other reminded me of prep school school days. Once, we needed to write something—anything. But all we got was one paper with a square for a drawing and a couple of lines on the other half of the paper. I remember drawing a wombat and this wombat went in a journey. I kept going to the teacher asking for more paper. I was pretty quick and had a simple picture story together. I remember the moment I read it out loud. My class mates loved it. Unfortunately, although my teacher did speak to my parents about this incident, they did not pick up on it. At university, I needed to rewrite many an essay as it had too much a ‘novelist’ style. Still, I did not think myself as a writer. Then my friend who was writing here dissertation decided she was the writer and I was ‘but’ an illustrator. I accepted it. She still calls herself a writer today (she’s got talent), but she never does the BIC. And to respect her ‘writing’, I just illustrated. Once a couple of years passed, I was tired of respecting her right to be a writer and started writing myself. Because, I felt so restrained just doing one or the other. Sometimes I find words first, other times images. I am what I decide to be, not who others tell me to be. So, I’ll keep doing the BIC—writing and illustrating—and eventually, I’ll be living what I thought would just be a dream.
“…perhaps we are connected by our listening for the distant hoofbeats of an approaching story.” Love that line! Thanks, Casey! And congrats on your success.
Love the story! Thanks for sharing so much on the webinar about its path to becoming a published book. I gained so much by your words.
Thank you for sharing your writing experience and well-deserved success. You have given so many of us the confidence to keep writing from our hearts.
I really enjoyed the webinar where you took us on your book journey, revision after revision. 🙂
“Seems like I am off to a new somewhere” is a line to be quoted for a long time. Thank yo for staying true to you!
Thank you for sharing your inspiring story and I can’t wait to read Iver and Ellsworth!
Great post. I love all the tips and really enjoyed your webinar too. I’m looking forward to grabbing a copy of your book next time I’m at the book store!
Hi Casey,
thanks so much for sharing and for all that you shared on the webinar. Congratulations on the release of your book.
Danielle
Thanks for sharing your journey.
Casey, I waited until I had time to watch your webinar before commenting on your post above. Your thoughts are as lovely and fun as you are in the webinar! After working all month at subbing at school, I’m not entering June “sitting alone with my laptop in the kitchen.” It has its pros & cons, but best of all, I now have “my time”‘ to finally listen to all the characters bubbling to tell their stories. Thx for all you shared above & in the webinar! Am looking forward to reading Iver & Ellsworth 🙂
“Seems like I’m off to a new somewhere.” – I love that quote. Writing it on a sticky note & placing it in my writing area!
What a wonderful webinar! Thank you, Casey! Congratulations and best of luck. Can’t wait to read IVER AND ELLSWORTH! 🙂
Thanks for the positive outlook in this. Love all the quotes. Can’t wait to read about Iver and Ellsworth!!!
Thank you for your wonderful post, Casey! Thank you for the encouragement and for all the awesome advice—I needed to hear all of it today 🙂 Congratulations on the new book, and can’t wait to read it!
I enjoyed the article and related webinar. Seeing the process of a book going from idea to print is fascinating and so helpful. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you for sharing Casey! This was a terrific post. 🙂
Thank you for your inspiration. Writing is a lonely occupation but when I m here on the forum, I feel surrounded by friends who know what I’m feeling. Thanks for sharing yours.
I want to be Jane Yolen when I grow up and if I publish even a 10th of what she is, I will feel fabulously productive.
This was so beautiful! I’m a whole month late in reading it, but I’m so glad I finally did. Your story is inspirational! As my two kids are finishing up another school year, I think about their teachers, and your 3rd grade teacher and feel lucky to be around so many encouraging people. From the teachers who honor my kids for who they are, to the kids themselves, proudly declaring to all that their mom is a writer, to all of you at 12×12, thank you! No one can do this alone, and as I sit in my quiet empty house I know I am not alone.
“Be you. And while you’re at it, be kind to you!” I love this advice! Thank you, Casey! I can’t wait to read your book!
Trust your instincts, fellow picture book writers. Trust the characters who are in your heart and tapping on your shoulder—bring them to life.
That’s great advice. Thanks!
Such thoughtful words and advice. Thank you for sharing your story!
Casey, you exude positivity and inspiration. Thanks for the Jane Yolen reminder…BIC.
Thanks for your lovely post! I appreciate you sharing the words of encouragement you received from your teacher — what a blessing that she saw your gift and told you about it!
So much truth in your encouraging post. Thank you. I’m looking forward to reading your debut book!
This is a great collection of advice, and I love Iver @ Ellsworth!
Casey, this post is beautiful! Thank you for these fantastic bits of wisdom.
Inspirational. Nothing beats BIC and faith in yourself and critique partners.
What an incredible journey to get you to this PB. I find your advice so true — about listening to the character and what he/she wants, hopes for, needs to do. I also like that advice about trusting our instincts. I can’t wait to read your new book!
I loved hearing about your trajectory, 12×12 influences and motivations. Your webinar was equally superb, it was so helpful to hear the process of working with a publisher from acquisition to print! I cannot wait to read your sweet debut!!!
What a wonderful post! Congrats on your book release, and keep on keepin’ on.
This post is filled to the brim with inspiring one-liners! Thank you, Casey, for ‘sending the elevator back down’ for the rest of us, and sharing your wisdom and experiences.
What a great post! Can’t wait to read this book!
Congrats for finding your direction in writing. Your book looks super cute!
Can’t wait to read your book!
Thanks for the inspiration!
Hi Casey, I’m really excited to read your picture book. It sounds endearing! And I love that you tell us to trust our instincts. That creative voice within is what keeps me going.
I LOVED this post. And I am excited to read your book!
Thank you! I will look for your book.
What a fabulous post! Thank you, Casey, for sending the elevator down. Can’t wait to read your beautiful story.
Seems I’m off to a new somewhere too Casey. Your story is inspiring. I will try to remember to be kind to self and trust n the story. Best Wishes – Pauline
Seems I’m off to a new somewhere too Casey. Thank you for sharing. I will try to remember to be kind to self and trust in the story. Best of luck with your next venture – Pauline
Casey,
Thank you for sharing these snippets of wisdom. I thoroughly enjoyed this post and I love the idea of following the characters tapping on our shoulders. I’m also jealous of that gorgeous photo of you and Jane Yolen!
Great post, Casey! And congratulations!
Thanks for inspiring us with your personal stories and fabulous quotes, Casey! I love Iver and Ellsworth, and wish you much continued success.
Casey, loved your seminar about Iver and Ellsworth. Looking forward to buying it. 🙂
Casey, I love your story. I love Iver and I love Ellsworth. What a beautiful and touching tale. God bless that teacher for seeing and valuing your talent and identity in third grade. Thank you for reminding us to follow our instincts, be ourselves and write that story from the heart that needs to be told. I’m taking your words to heart and moving forward, BIC. Thanks!
Thank you Casey for sharing your journey with us! I loved hearing your 3rd grade story and how early the writing bug can hit. 🙂 I really enjoyed your webinar as well. Thank you for being so open and honest about the whole process (as well as sharing your early drafts!). It was so helpful to hear- and visually see – your process/progression with the MS! Congratulations on Iver and Ellsworth! Such a charming story!
Thank you Casey for sharing your journey and encouraging all of us. Your words are inspiring and remind me to have hope, and belief in myself. I love authenticity and you are truly authentic in your sharing!
Thank you so much for this beautiful, inspiring post Casey! I’m off to follow the characters in my heart.
This post really touched me, thank you! I can’t wait to read Iver & Ellsworth–congratulations!!!
Thanks for a great post! Congrats on Iver and Ellsworth! Cheers brooke
“Be you. And while you’re at it, be kind to you.” I love that so much. As someone who is also taking 40+ years to find my way to writing, sometimes being kind and not getting upset with myself over “lost time” can be hard. Thank you for the words of wisdom and inspiration!
I absolutely loved Casey’s webinar discussion! She was so sweet and down to earth. I also loved getting to see the numerous revisions that her picture book text went through. I would LOVE to win a copy of her debut picture book. It looks adorable!
The passion that you showed for your characters, Iver and Ellsworth in your webinar was so overwhelming that I ordered a copy of your book on the spot. Obviously your presentation really moved me. Great post.
Casey – I really enjoyed your webinar. It was so helpful to see the various drafts and iterations that it took to get to your final manuscript!
You’ve gotten some very good advice from some very good teachers/writers!
I enjoyed your webinar as you detailed the process you went through from driving pass the rooftop bear to editing and ultimately to publishing! This article is an excellent reminder to write because you love it, write what is true to your heart, and celebrate stories because the whole point is getting more lovely literature into the hearts and hands of children. Thank you for your insight and encouragement too!
Casey, I really enjoyed your webinar and also thank you for your words of wisdom and humour. I like the BIC statement..butt in chair, what about butt in the air or BITA since some people may write while at a standing desk? I don’t stand up while writing though :o) Continued success to you and your wonderful book!!!
“When I’m really writing, I’m listening.”- Madeleine L’Engle. Perfectly sums it up.
Your line about being off to a new somewhere is inspiring. In fact, I found your whole post inspiring. Great webinar too. Thanks, Casey.
Thank you for your post and webinar and congrats on your book and just yay! It’s all wonderful!
I’m so inspired by your story. Thank you for sharing, Casey.
Hi Casey,
I enjoyed the webinar and the blog post. I look forward to reading your book!
Thanks for “sending the elevator back down,” Casey! I loved reading your inspirational story from childhood. Congrats on following your dreams and making it your reality. Inspiration for us all!
Thanks for putting words to this mysterious creative process. And congratulations on your book!
I can’t wait to read this book!! I already love it!
Thank you, Casey! Can’t wait to meet Iver and Ellsworth
I love this post. Such a good way to think about being a writer.
Thanks for your wonderful post. I can’t wait to read your book to my students.
Wonderful post and webinar, Casey . . . thank you for sharing your journey with us. Congratulations on Iver & Ellsworth!!!
What an inspiring post, Casey! Thank you. Kindness definitely goes a long way! Success with your book. I don’t doubt it.
Casey, I posted a comment earlier in the month but I was so touched by your post that I reread it today and took notes. I also want to share with you how I was given the opportunity to speak to a group of teachers at the end of the school year. I mentioned your testimony about how your third grade teacher encouraged you by saying that you were a writer. Our words as teachers and writers impact lives. I am thankful for the way your words have inspired me and in turn many other teachers/writers, having a beautiful rippling affect. Thank you again for giving us a glimpse of your writing journey.
Oops! In my comment, there was a typo. It should have stated, “You are having a rippling ‘effect’ not ‘affect’”.
But it is true that you and the others in this supportive community are “affecting” many in positive ways as we share our journeys with each other.
I am glad I caught the mistake before too many read it.☺️
Thank you so much for this post. The emotional journey of a writer, I am learning, is as significant as the result! I totally agree with you about 12×12, as well. Writing can be such an isolating experience. Finding your “tribe” changes everything.
Thanks for the great tips & congratulations on IVER & ELLSWORTH! Can’t wait to read it!
Thanks for the great tips & congratulations on IVER & ELLSWORTH! Can’t wait to read it!
Congratulations! I really enjoyed your webinar. Thanks for sharing your story.
In celebration of conciseness and poetry! And the Choose kind. Be you and be kind to you.
Will look for your book–congratulations!
Just got my copy of I & E from the library & it’s absolutely beautiful! So glad you shared your words & process with us. Thank you!
Great post! Loved the tips. Can’t wait to read your book.
Can’t wait to read Iver and Ellsworth and I’m truly inspired by your journey Casey.
Such a nice interview. Thank you for sharing your “story”. I think that is also how I became an illustrator.
Now I would like to be illustrator/author. thank you again for sharing!
I enjoyed your post and the webinar tremendously! I’m excited to go get a copy of Iver & Ellsworth.
What great inspiration Casey. Thank you for sharing and encouraging. Congratulations on Iver and Ellsworth. I look forward to reading it. Happy writing!
I cannot wait to read this book. It looks adorable!
Thanks for sharing your journey with us, not only in this posting but also in the webinar; you inspire me to keep on keeping on! Looking forward to reading your book.
Congratulations, Casey! Go Epic 18!
Thank you! And thank you for doing the webinar too. It was great to hear how the book came to life.
Thank you, Casey, for your encouraging and inspiring post! I enjoyed your webinar with Julie and Rob too. Your love for the picture book writing process shines through! Congrats on your new PB…I can’t wait to read it 🙂
Very inspirational post. I need to listen to Jane Yolen’s advice and keep BIC more than I usually do!
Thank you for the inspiring post.
I can’t remember if I already comment or not! In case I didn’t- love this post, but also- LOVEd your webinar. Your description of what it felt like to look at your book for the first time- having to pace around the house for a few minutes, etc- just filled me with delight and put tears in my eyes. THAT’s the dream, and you captured it beautifully.
Great post and also loved your webinar! Can’t wait to read this book!
Casey, Thank you for your kind and wise words. Also, I enjoyed listening to you on the webinar where you brought such freshness and joy. I really heard the magic of trusting your story to come to life, trusting collaboration and allowing others to co-create with you. While you held to the writing, you ceded the illustration and allowed the editor to ask for changes in direction. Congratulation and thank you again.
What a lovely post! I love how you drew inspiration from other books. Congratulations on your first PB!
Casey, congratulations on your book, and thanks for the encouraging post.
Thank you for sharing.
I just got your book out from the library! Can’t wait to share it with my kids. 🙂
Thank you Casey. Very inspirational. I love your book! I ordered it right after your 12 x 12 webinar and it came shortly afterwards! It’s wonderful.
So nice to see your hard work being recognized by a teacher and now it is sitting on store shelves. Thank you for your advice!
Intentional – that’s how I’d describe you; intentional and deliberate in your use of language and the way you put it together and I love that!
Looking forward to getting hold of a copy of your boom in one way or another – it looks beautiful 🙂
BIC 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 Great post! Thank you and Congrats!
Thanks for sharing your journey. barbara
Great read! Loved hearing about Iver and Ellsworth in your webinar, and I’m looking forward to getting my hands on it here in NZ!
Hello Casey,
Congrats on your gorgeous PB. I look forward to reading it. The article and the webinar were both very interesting. Enjoy all the success.
All the best,
Evelyn
“beating myself up for flaws that turned out to be skills instinctive to writing picture books” –I recognized this in myself! Gentleness is a good quality.
Thank you for sharing your wisdom! It’s just what I needed to hear!!
Thank you for sharing.
Love this. I can so relate…you thought your story was wrong. I always produced wrong stories and had such anxiety in classes that involved writing. When I home schooled my 2 boys we had the best fun in these classes because I let them be themselves. Thanks for the encouragement.
Thanks so much for the encouragement. I love your quotes and your points are well made. I am touched by how your teacher took you aside and spoke to your calling. What a gift!
Excellent, Casey! Concise (!) and inspiring.
Congrats Casey on your debut picture book. What a great idea – a roof top bear story! I cannot wait to read it. I, too, am inspired to write most of my picture books by the things I see on my long commute. Thank you for proving that it can be done;>
Wonderful! So inspirational. Thank you!
Thank you for the inspirational post and webinar, Casey! Congrats on the recent launch of Iver & Ellsworth. I cannot wait to read it! I remember that bear from when I lived in Hopkinton and Uxbridge MA. I live in Vermont now.
I was so inspired both by this blog post and your webinar. Thanks and congratulations!
“…listening for the distant hoofbeats of an approaching story.” I love this, because I live this. Thank you for a lovely post. Can’t wait to read your book.
I already love my copy of Iver & Ellsworth and can’t wait to share it with others. Thanks for sharing your path to publication with us!
I got my copy in the mail yesterday. I just love the tone of the book. It is so sweet. I really enjoyed your 12 x 12 webinar. You inspired me with your tremendous relationship with your editor.
What a lovely book, I am looking forward to reading it! Congrats to you, your journey is very inspiring!
Thanks for the wonderful and helpful inspiration. It is just what I needed!
You are an inspiration, Casey! Thanks for sharing your journey!
What a beautiful post, Casey. I loved being at your launch and I absolutely adore IVER & ELLSWORTH (that ampersand is a perfect way to show their affection)! Thanks for sharing these enduring lessons. “Be you” particularly resonated–hard-won but I’m now comfortable and confident with where I am and what I can attempt in my writing. Looking forward to learning more about your work!