I’m honored and delighted to be the last featured author of the year. Since December is often a time for reflection, I thought this would be a good time to reflect on my journey thus far as a children’s book creator and see what nuggets I (along with some friends) could pull out that could be of value to you. I’ve always had a love for art, writing, and storytelling but my journey into kidlit began in 2012 when I took a writing and illustrating course for children. After almost a decade of learning and practicing the craft amidst full-time teaching, my debut nonfiction picture book, 30,000 Stitches: The Inspiring Story of the National 9/11 Flag, illustrated by Sally Wern Comport, was released in 2021.
As with many creators, my road to publication has been long and bumpy. I don’t shy away from what some may consider ‘tough topics’ in my work and felt the weight of this when my debut released in conjunction with the 20th remembrance of 9/11. Not only was I nervous to have my first book enter the world, but I felt the pressure to get it right due to the enormity of the topic and all those who were impacted by the tragedy.
My forthcoming title, MOONLIGHT MEMORIES, illustrated by Michelle Jing Chan (June 2023) is based on my own experience of losing a parent when I was young and using creativity as a way to heal and my third book, set to launch in 2024, is another nonfiction book about the human-animal bond and (you guessed it!) includes themes of grief, loss, hope, and healing. As a reader, creator, educator, and parent, I know these topics are essential to explore with children. I’m glad my books can provide an entry point for discussion and help children feel safe and seen as they process their own complex emotions and challenging experiences.
As necessary as these stories are, they aren’t always easy to write/illustrate or bring into the world. I’ve had to navigate and reexamine my own wounds while also processing the experiences of those who graciously and courageously choose to share their difficult experiences with me. As a creator, I don’t think you’re ever fully prepared for this part of the process. It’s forced me to practice self-care and boundaries as I write and discuss my work with children and adults. I give myself permission to take space from my work, meditate, talk to my therapist, and spend a lot of time in nature. In all my stories, I include an element of light and hope for readers, encouraging them to look for the bright spots so the darkness doesn’t overwhelm. I try to do the same in my own life but even with hope, the heaviness of tragedy and grief can linger.
I know many of you out there are also digging deep into your wells-telling your personal and sometimes difficult stories so that children can see themselves in your work. Or, perhaps you’re going through a difficult period in your own life right now that’s causing your creativity to stall. Or, maybe, you just need a reminder to take care of yourself! So what can we do to take care of ourselves while also taking care of our readers? I polled a few other kidlit friends who also tackle essential topics in their work. They agreed to share their best practices on craft and self-care to help us navigate.
Elizabeth Gilbert Bedia, author of BALLOONS FOR PAPA, illustrated by Erika Meza.
“When writing BALLOONS FOR PAPA, I tried to keep three things in mind:
- Keep the story child-centered – by writing from Arthur’s perspective – it allowed the emotional impact to be felt but also for some child-like levity to thread through the story.
- Keep the text sparse and simple – by using sparse text the story didn’t become too heavy or too “explain-y” yet remained effective. It also allowed Erika’s beautiful illustrations to shine and mirror the characters’ emotional arcs.
- Keep the story relatable – even though I had a personal experience that inspired the story. I needed to check that specific experience at the door, so I could craft a story that was relatable, and one that readers would feel a connection to when reading it.”
Michelle Jing Chan, illustrator of MOONLIGHT MEMORIES, written by me!
“In Amanda Davis’ book, MOONLIGHT MEMORIES, a young girl named Piper learns to process grief after her mother passes away. While I couldn’t relate directly to the experience of losing a parent, I found other ways to connect to the story. Identifying the core emotions of the story instead of focusing on the character’s experience was one thing that helped me.
The central emotions of the story are loss and healing. I was very close to my grandma and she and my grandpa were almost like a second set of parents. Unfortunately, she passed away shortly before the pandemic. I channeled this experience and it helped me understand Piper’s emotions and imagine ways to visually portray them in the illustrations. Loss and grief are universal human experiences; by reflecting on our own lives, we can empathize with the stories of others and put ourselves in their shoes.”
AJ Irving, author of DANCE LIKE A LEAF, illustrated by Claudia Navarro:
“The act of writing can be therapeutic. My debut picture book, DANCE LIKE A LEAF, was inspired by a farewell letter I wrote my grandmother when her life was nearing the end. Writing can be a wonderful tool to help us heal, but it is essential to practice self-care. We often hear feedback from critique partners and agents that we need to dig deeper. The best way to do this is to take care of you and write for yourself first.
Self-care tips for writing about tough topics:
- Create a welcoming writing space. Light a candle, play soothing music, decorate your space with art, photos, encouraging letters, and affirmations.
- Write for yourself. Write a letter, poem, or a journal entry. Take breaks and let your mind wander. Drink a cup of tea, go on a hike, find shapes in the clouds, and read.
- Reach out. Share your feelings with a friend, family member, or critique partner.
Nadia Fisher, illustrator of DADDY & ME, SIDE BY SIDE, written by Pierce Freelon
“Grief can be a challenging emotion to illustrate. In DADDY & ME, SIDE BY SIDE, the author, Pierce Freelon, wrote such a poignant multigenerational story that is about the loss of his own father and how he keeps his memory alive with his son. His words and memories are so touching that I was able to really “feel” his emotion. I was also able to browse Pierce’s social media posts where he often spoke about his father, before and after his passing, and I was able to get a deeper understanding about their relationship.
I channeled my own feelings surrounding the loss of my grandmother and how I try to keep her memory alive in the traditions that I make with my daughter. Sitting with the manuscript, the research, and all of the feelings evoked, allowed me to envision how I wanted to portray the grief and the happiness that went hand in hand in the story.”
And to end on a bright spot, here are some words of reflection from one of my favorite poets, Victoria Erickson
I hope that as the year comes to a close, and you reflect on your own journeys, you recognize the progress, determination, and growth you’ve had. That as you look forward, you feel inspired to go out there and build your own doorways, carve your own sun, rearrange, and revive! And of course, take good care of yourself along the way! Wishing you all much love, light, health, and happiness as we round the corner to a new year! Thank you for telling your stories and being a part of this special community.
Amanda Davis is the author of the award-winning, 30,000 STITCHES: THE INSPIRING STORY OF THE NATIONAL 9/11 FLAG, illustrated by Sally Wern Comport (Hachette Book Group/WorthyKids, May 2021) MOONLIGHT MEMORIES, illustrated by Michelle Jing Chan (Hachette Book Group/WorthyKids, June 2023) and a yet to be announced forthcoming title. Her poetry and illustrations appear in the Writers’ Loft Poetry Anthology, FRIENDS AND ANEMONES: OCEAN POEMS FOR CHILDREN (November 2020). She is the recipient of the 2020 Ann Whitford Paul-Writer’s Digest Most Promising Picture Book Award and is an active member of SCBWI, 12×12, and The Writer’s Loft. Davis has over ten years of experience as a classroom teacher and was selected as Massachusetts Secondary Art Educator of the Year. When she’s not busy creating, she is usually sipping tea, petting dogs, and exploring the natural wonders of The Bay State with her family and her rescue pup, Cora. Learn more at https://www.amandadavisart.
For our December check-in Amanda is offering one 12 x 12 member a signed book of 30,000 STITCHES: THE INSPIRING STORY OF THE NATIONAL 9/11 FLAG or a signed copy of MOONLIGHT MEMORIES when it releases in June 2023. Finish 2022 strong and get a new draft written today!
127 Responses
Thanks for a great post and for including wisdom from your kidlit friends as well! Congratulations!
Thanks for sharing your story, and congratulations on your publishing success thus far!
What a simply terrific and heartfelt piece for the last month of our 12×12 time this year. This has so many nuggets of wisdom, not just for self care but for writing. I so appreciate it. And I am so sorry for your losses. Thank you for this!
My heart is in my throat after reading this post -thank you for sharing.
This is so inspiring! Thank you for sharing. I’m a fan of the Loft, too, at least before they moved – maybe we crossed paths once or twice!
Thanks, Amanda, for sharing your writing journey and for sharing wisdom and advice from your writing colleagues. I can’t wait to read the books that have been discussed. And I love all the tips on self-care. Best wishes!
“Carve your own sun into the sky” What an uplifting thought! This was a well-placed piece for the end of this year. Thank you!
Thank you for sharing these wonderful tips on self-care.
Great post, Amanda! Thank you for giving us a peek at your writing journey and for sharing the wonderful advice from your writing buddies. I loved the passage you quoted from poet, Victoria Erickson’s book, “Rhythm and Roads.” “Carve your own sun into the sky!” What a terrific way to express writing for yourself… for not being led by what is popular at the moment … for doing your own thing!!
Great post Amanda for the end of the year! I appreciate everyone’s suggestions for ways to care for ourselves as well. Looking forward to your next books.
Thank you for this. I can’t wait to read Moonlight Memories.
Lovely and inspiring post! Thank you for sharing your journey and offering this wise counsel on digging deep to find our stories.
Amanda, thanks for sharing your (and others) insight into incorporating grief as part of the healing and writing process/journey. Your books are so meaningful and important!
What a great post! Thanks for sharing your wisdom 🙂
Thank you for this amazing post and the words of wisdom. Your books look wonderful, congratulations. Wishing you much happiness in the new year as well.
I loved, loved, loved the quote from Victoria Erickson! Thank you for that and for the thought that a writer needs to care for readers and for self.
Amanda, What an insightful post! You’ve given me much to think about and inspired me to “dig deep” when I am thinking it is just too hard to do. Thank you.
Thank you for this beautiful, inspiring post – and for your beautiful, inspiring book(s)! I can’t wait to read your upcoming titles!
Thank you for sharing your wisdom with all of us. And congrats on your book!
I think every creative person needs to practice self care, no matter the topic they’re dealing with. Although tough topics require a lot more intentional care. Thank you for sharing these helpful suggestions with us as we head into a new year of creating books that inspire, comfort, and entertain kids.
Thank-you for writing this post and including the wisdom of other creators in it. After I lost my mother only a few years ago, a friend told me that it doesn’t matter if your 10 or 60, the loss is still earth-shattering. I believe your book Moonlight Memories will resonate deeply for all ages.
Thank you Amanda! I look forward to reading your upcoming books.
So timely Amanda, this hits home in many ways. I have a manuscript dealing with love, loss, and hope that I’m currently subbing. Your post gave me encouragement that the right publisher is out there. I think these topics will always be difficult yet necessary for young readers. Thank you.
Thank you for the great ideas! Some of my manuscripts are very heartfelt and it is exhausting emotionally. Self care is so important, thanks for the reminders.
beautifully explained, Amanda! You and others gave this book hope, and with that, others needing comfort and inspiration. Thanks for sharing and being you. You are a good egg.🌻
Your post was so helpful- we all have stories within us worth telling, and writing about the human emotions is wonderful and exhausting. Great wisdom shared!
Thank you for this post. I look forward to reading your upcoming books.
Self-care is so essential for creatives! Thank you for sharing your own unique journey with us Amanda and sharing others as well. I’m so glad your books are out or soon to be out there in the world.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings about your journey through the writing world. Your words are insightful and inspirational.
Thank you for sharing Amanda. Some of my manuscripts definitely have too much ME in them.
This is a wonderful post. Thank you for your insight and for sharing your process.
Thank you for sharing your story. It’s so important to take care of ourselves, especially when we’re digging deep. I also appreciate the hopeful ending.
Thank you, Amanda, for sharing the elements of light, hope, and encouragement. These times have left holes in my heart. Your words will help me fill them. Wishing you and yours the best in 2023.
What a great post! I love how you, and the other authors, have been able to dig deep to bring these important stories to the important children they will resonate with! Congrats–and thank you for sharing!
Brilliant post, Amanda. Loved the advice to reflect on your journey and find the nuggets. And also practice craft AND practice self-care. Awesome suggestions from your writing friends, too.
All the best for 2023!
Wonderful post, Amanda. Beautifully written, just like your books!
Thank you so much for sharing your journey with us.
It was areal honor to have the release of your first book, so important to our country at the same time that we were mourning a historical tragedy.
Art and Writing are a great combination to express ourselves and also to find a refuge while going through hard moments in our lives. I am so glad that you took a personal experience to reach children who are trying to find their way, while dealing with pain.
Amanda, I wish you great success in your career as a writer, and maybe also an illustrator in the future.
Thank you for sharing your insights and your journey with us. Congratulations on your debut book and those coming up.
Amanda,
Thanks so much for sharing these wise words on managing grief and helping children navigate grief with our writing. We need more books that deal with tough topics, and you do it so beautifully. Congratulations on your recent publication. I look forward to reading this and your other forthcoming works.
Congratulations on your beautiful stories. Thanks for sharing your journey and offering such valuable thoughts.
911 was a very powerful moment in time for me living in the Boston suburbs. We had several families in our own community who lost a parent with young children my own children’s age whose lives have forever been changed. I also had a family friend from NYC who lost their son @ 19 years old who was a firefighter for NYC. Thank you for having the courage to write 30,000 Stitches. I love this book! Thank you for sharing your journey and I look forward to reading Moonlight Memories and your other forthcoming books. Grief is a tough topic for children and one that is not easy to write about so I really applaud you and your work! Wishing you a fabulous New Year in 2023!
What a great post! I liked this approach of looping in some affiliations for perspectives in addition to your own. Congrats on your publications!!
Thank you for sharing and for bringing in other perspectives as well.
Thanks for all this inspiration. Happy New Year!
Thank you Ms. Davis for sharing this post and your insightful tips! Happy New Year and congratulations on your wonderful books!
I love 30,000 stitches! Thanks for sharing your journey and tips!
Thank you for sharing, Amanda! Happy New Year!
“ I’m glad my books can provide an entry point for discussion and help children feel safe and seen as they process their own complex emotions and challenging experiences.”
Such great insight and so, so important that kids have books like this!
Thank you for sharing how you and others create books that deal with these essential topics! Your journey is both inspiring and encouraging!
Beautiful, heartfelt post, Amanda.
Thank you so much for sharing! This is an inspiring post!
Thank you for these words and for sharing your many personal journeys of grief and loss that you’ve turned into hope and joy for us.
Thank you for your insights and the important and beautiful books you have written. I appreciate the comments from other authors. I have a difficult story to write and I just haven’t figured out how to do it so this post is extremely helpful.
Thank you for sharing your beautiful story and personal process.
Happy New Year, thanks for these words of wisdom for 2023.
Writing about difficult times in a child centered way is a gift I’m so thankful you shared. You are true inspiration!
Thank you for this lovely post!
Thank you, Amanda! I have been working on a picture book about a young girl missing her military Mom stationed overseas. Your post and your friends’ suggestions and books, have given me clarity, direction and inspiration .
A heartfelt post with numerous gems of wisdom. Grief is a difficult topic but pairing it with healing equals hope. Light emerges and shines from the darkness. Thank you for tackling the tough topics and translating them in a way so that children can process emotions they can’t necessarily articulate.
Emotions bring the strongest to their knees..Thank you for sharing your Journey and encouraging others to write their stories.
Thanks for these inspiring posts. These are difficult books to write but so necessary to share with children.
Thank you for such a wonderful, inspiring post!! I loved reading about your journey 🙂
Thank you for sharing your journey. The tips for self-care offered by you and your friends are inspiring. Move the light out of your bones… Love it! Many thanks!
Such great information and tips. Thanks for sharing!
What a terrific post. Bringing that light. Thank you!
Thanks for sharing this post and for being willing to tackle difficult, yet important topics in your books. Happy New Year!
Thank you for your heartfelt and brave reflection on writing and life.
Thanks for sharing your tips & wisdom in this great post!
Thank you for your books and encouragement. I am working hard at building my own doorways and carving my own sun. I look forward to reading your books.
Thank you for the wonderful post!
Wow, Amanda, thank you for this heartfelt post. It really resonates with me as my stories often contain “touch topics” as well. I love how you covered ideas on craft as well as self-care. Take good care.
Lovely reflections, Amanda. 30 000 Stitches is a wonderful book. I’m looking forward to reading Moonlight Memories!
I love your thoughts on self care and how it impacts writing and about reflecting. Great reminders
Personal connections always pave the way to a great story. Congratulations on your publications and also seeing the need to care for yourself while you did it!
Personal connections always pave the way to a great story. Congratulations on your publications and seeing the need to care for yourself!
Thanks for sharing, Amanda. And thanks for choosing to write about tough topics.
Love this post, thank you, Amanda! Happy 2023! 🙂
This is such a wonderful book! Thanks for sharing with us and congratulations!!
Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for this. The book sounds wonderful!
Thanks for your post. Love that you tackle tough topics and appreciate your advice!
Thanks for your beautiful post Amanda, straight from your heart. Congratulations on your books. I loved the strong messages of carve your own sun, rearrange and revive – pertinent to all aspects of life. very best wishes for 2023.
Thank you and your friends for sharing their strategies for self care while writing challenging topics. Truly helpful.
The way you weave your personal experience into creating meaningful books for children is inspiring. What a gift you’re offering to all of us. Thank you!
Thank you for sharing your words, as well as those of others.
A personal story is always hard to write, but can also be a way to free your soul and let weight be lifted from your shoulders. Thank you for sharing.
Sniff sniff such a powerful post to end the year. Thank you for shedding light on how to approach the tough stuff
Thank you for sharing self care tips for authors and illustrators. Congratulations on your books!
Thank you so much for sharing so much of your path and story. Can’t wait to read both of your books!
I can relate to a lot of what you mentioned. Thanks so much for writing this and shining your light on difficult but much needed topics!
Thank you for sharing – and the reminder to make caring for ourselves part of the writing process.
I agree that taking time away can be quite beneficial: a new setting, nature, etc.
Can’t wait to read MOONLIGHT MEMORIES.
That was an inspiring quote towards the end. Enjoyed reading the article.
Thank you for sharing a post that sheds light on what is involved in writing about very difficult topics.
Thanks for this informational post!
As a teacher, I can’t thank you enough for these stories. When students experience trauma and loss in their lives, books bring so much comfort!
I read your post in January – It is a great one to start the year . Thank you for sharing how you handle the really hard stuff.
Congratulations on your books !!
Thank you for this inspiring and full-hearted post, Amanda. Congrats on your writing successes and wish you more.
Great post. Thanks for your insight.
By sharing your heartfelt journey to publication, you are touching many lives! Thank you for being vulnerable. I appreciate the counsel of all those who contributed to your special post. Entering this new year with excitement with you and our 12×12 family of writers.
Thank you for sharing your personal experiences and journey to publication. Congratulations on your books and upcoming title!
What a great post! We need more books for kids about difficult topics.
These are excellent tips. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for the wise words! Congrats on your upcoming books!
Thank you so much for the reminder. YES!
Thank you so much for your beautiful and insightful post!
Thank you for the beautiful and thoughtful suggestions on how to approach these topics, Amanda!
How inspiring. How well said. How generous in spirit to share your journey. Thank you Amanda.
What a beautiful post! Thank you!
This was just the post I needed to read today. Thank you for sharing these wonderful tips and your experience.
Congratulations, Thanks so sharing this!
I. love everything you shared in this post. Thank you for such a gift.
Great post, thanks!
Thanks for sharing about your writing journey.
Thank you for sharing your journey!
Thank you for your post, and for setting an example for us as you tackle hard and tricky subjects.
It is good to hear how other authors and illustrators also navigate working on emotionally taxing topics.
Such helpful advice for writing emotional, tricky, but necessary topics! Thanks so much!
I appreciate this article so much and the information you have shared. I have written a couple of social emotional drafts. Opening up my heart to tough memories experienced as a child is difficult for me. I need to take breaks to rest my emotions. I was a small child for my age and was picked on constantly. As a child, I handled it well. But, when I look back on it, it makes me sad. Thank you for writting books for children to know that everybody hurts. Everybody Hurts is a title for one of my manuscripts. Congratulations on your books.
Thanks for sharing your story. How wise you are to know and practice self-care and boundaries.
Beautiful illustrations to accompany the text.
Thank you for this post. Your books sound wonderful.
Thank you for sharing your insights and personal writing journey, Amanda. The challenges of re-visiting and writing about the tragedies and emotional wounds we experienced as children are many — and the rewards when you succeed, even greater. Congratulations on your PB publishing successes and thank you for helping others heal through reading them. Best wishes in 2023!
Thanks for sharing!
Yay, thanks so much for the amazing post, it was so nice also to see my friend Nadia’s words about her new book!! I love the poem too, and can’t wait for another year of writing!! 😀
Lovely. Thank you, Amanda.
A heartfelt and yet quite valuable post on how to put proper child-relatable emotion into into a story. We all have similar emotions to those of our story, even if they were experienced as an adult. We should be able to view those from the point of the child in our story.
Amanda, that was a lovely post. Such amazing tips! Thanks for sharing your wisdom as well as that of other writers. And congratulations on your books!!